Rotary units, rotary mechanisms, and related applications

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to rotary units and rotary mechanisms that are suitable for use in numerous applications. Rotary units typically include rotational components that are configured to rotate. In some embodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are assembled in rotary mechanisms such that neighboring pairs of rotational components counter-rotate or contra-rotate relative to one another during operation of the rotary mechanisms. Rotational components generally include one or more implements that are structured to perform or effect one or more types of work as the rotational components rotate relative to one another in a given rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, implements are configured to rotate and/or to effect the movement of other components as rotational components rotate.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part, of, and claims the benefitof priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No.13/184,332, filed Jul. 15, 2011, which claims the benefit of priorityfrom U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 61/365,290, filed Jul. 16,2010 and 61/376,725, filed Aug. 25, 2010, which are each incorporated byreference in their entirety. U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No.13/184,332, filed Jul. 15, 2011 is also continuation-in-part of, andclaims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 12/577,326, filed Oct. 12, 2009, which claims thebenefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.61/104,748, filed on Oct. 12, 2008 and International Patent ApplicationNo. PCT/US09/60386, filed on Oct. 12, 2009, which are each incorporatedby reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to mechanical, electrical, orelectromechanical devices, and provides rotary units, rotary mechanisms,methods, and related devices and other applications that are useful fora wide variety of purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Electromechanical devices are ubiquitous. Some of these devices includerotating components and are used in many different applications.Gardening tools such as rotor tillers, for example, typically includerotating rotors having tines, which contact the soil during operation.Many other devices of use in agricultural and construction, among manyother fields or applications also utilize various types of rotationalcomponents to achieve desired forms of work.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to rotary units and rotary mechanisms that aresuitable for use in numerous applications. Rotary units typicallyinclude rotational components that are configured to rotate. In someembodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are assembled in rotarymechanisms such that neighboring pairs of rotational componentscounter-rotate or contra-rotate relative to one another during operationof the rotary mechanisms. Rotational components generally include one ormore implements that are structured to perform or effect one or moretypes of work as the rotational components rotate relative to oneanother in a given rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, implementsare configured to rotate and/or to effect the movement of othercomponents as rotational components rotate. These and many other aspectswill be apparent upon a complete review of this disclosure.

In one aspect, the invention provides a rotary unit that includes atleast one rotational component comprising at least a first gearcomponent, at least one gear structure receiving area that is configuredto receive one or more gear structures or components thereof, and atleast a second gear component disposed at least proximal to the gearstructure receiving area. The rotary unit also includes at least onegear structure comprising at least one support component and at leastone third gear component rotatably coupled to the support component. Thethird gear component is configured to operably engage the second gearcomponent when the gear structure is at least partially disposed in thegear structure receiving area. In addition, the first gear component isconfigured to operably engage one or more third gear components of atleast one other rotary unit when the rotary unit is disposed proximal tothe other rotary unit. In some embodiments of the rotary units of theinvention, the rotational component is configured to receive at leastone drive mechanism or a portion thereof. In certain embodiments, theother rotary unit operably engages the rotary unit. To furtherillustrate, in certain embodiments, at least two other rotary unitsoperably engage the rotary unit.

The rotational components of the rotary units and rotary mechanisms ofthe invention include various embodiments. In some embodiments, forexample, the rotational components are coupled to one another via ashaft positioned proximal to an axis of rotation. In certainembodiments, the rotary units and rotary mechanisms of the inventioninclude more than two rotational components (e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,10 or more rotational components) in which neighboring pairs ofrotational components are configured to substantially simultaneouslycounter-rotate relative to one another. In some embodiments, a frictionreducing material is disposed between the first and second rotationalcomponents to reduce friction between the first and second rotationalcomponents when the first and second rotational components substantiallycoaxially rotate relative to one another. In some embodiments, therotational components substantially coaxially rotate around a rotationalaxis that is substantially horizontally disposed during operation of therotary mechanism. Optionally, the rotational components each compriseone or more alignment components structured to align neighboring pairsof rotational components relative to one another. In some of theseembodiments, for example, the alignment components comprise a circularridge disposed on, extending from, or attached to a surface of a firstmember of a pair of neighboring rotational components and a circulargroove disposed in a surface of a second member of the pair ofneighboring rotational components, which circular ridge inserts into androtates in the circular groove in an assembled rotary mechanism. Incertain embodiments, the alignment components comprise a circular groovedisposed in a surface of each member of the pair of neighboringrotational components and a ring disposed in the grooves of the pair ofneighboring rotational components, which grooves rotate about the ringin an assembled rotary mechanism.

Typically, the rotary units or mechanisms of the invention include oneor more implements that can be used or adapted for use in many differentapplications. In certain embodiments, for example, at least one surfaceof a rotational component comprises at least one implement. Optionally,a rotational component comprises at least one implement that isconfigured to effect the movement of one or more other components (e.g.,a propeller component or the like) when the rotational component rotatesand the implement operably engages the other components. In certainembodiments, rotary units or mechanisms include at least one implementrotatably coupled to a rotation component, which implement is configuredto operably engage one or more gear components of one or more otherrotational components. To illustrate, in some embodiments, the rotaryunits or mechanisms of the invention include one or more gear componentsthat are configured to operably engage one or more implements rotatablycoupled to one or more other rotational components. In some embodiments,a rotary unit or a related rotary mechanism of the invention includes atleast one implement rotatably coupled to a rotational component. Inthese embodiments, the implement is optionally configured to operablyengage one or more gear components of at least one other rotary unitwhen the rotary unit is disposed proximal to the other rotary unit suchthat the implement rotates when at least the rotational component andthe other rotary unit rotate relative to one another. Optionally, atleast one implement is disposed in, on and/or extending from at leastone surface of a rotational component. In some embodiments, for example,implements include one or more of, e.g., a blade, a razor, a prong, apeg, a claw, a tine, a chain, a stake, a column, a pillar, an arch, abracket, a gear component, a bristle, a plume, an abrasive component, anelastomeric component, a nail filing component, a nail buffingcomponent, a hair cutting component, a massaging component, a post, etc.To further illustrate, at least a portion of an implement comprises atleast one cross-sectional shape selected from, e.g., a circle, an oval,a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, aregular n-sided polygon, and the like.

In certain embodiments, a device or vehicle includes a rotary unit ormechanism of the invention. In some embodiments, the device is selectedfrom, e.g., a held-held device, a rototiller, a hair cutting device, amassaging device, nail grooming device, a propulsion device, awoodworking device, a lathe, a woodchipping device, a machining device,a dermabrasion device, a medical device, a dental device, a cleaningdevice, an engine, a snow blower, a nozzle, a food preparation device, agrinder, a pencil sharpener, a lawn mower, a vacuum cleaner, a hairdryer, a plumbing device, a weapon, a surfboard, a scuba device, acomponent thereof, a combination thereof, etc. In certain embodiments,the vehicle includes a farming vehicle, a mining vehicle, a constructionvehicle, a submarine, an aircraft, a marine vehicle, a boat, a personalwatercraft, a military vehicle, or the like.

The drive mechanisms used with the rotary units and rotary mechanisms ofthe invention include various embodiments. In certain embodiments, forexample, a drive mechanism comprises at least one motor. Optionally, adrive mechanism comprises one or more of, e.g., a drive shaft, a chaindrive, a belt drive, a gear drive, or the like, in some embodiments, adrive mechanism comprises at least one flexible drive shaft. To furtherillustrate, a drive mechanism is optionally operably coupled to acounter-rotational mechanism and/or rotational components via at leastone drive shaft, at least one drive chain, at least one belt drive,and/or at least one gear drive.

In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary mechanism thatincludes at least first, second, and third rotational components inwhich at least one of the rotational components comprises at least oneimplement. The rotary mechanism also includes at least first and secondcounter-rotational mechanisms in which the first counter-rotationalmechanism operably engages at least the first and second rotationalcomponents, and in which the second counter-rotational mechanismoperably engages at least the second and third rotational components. Inaddition, the rotary mechanism also includes at least one drivemechanism component or a portion thereof operably engaged with one ormore of the rotational components and/or with one or more of thecounter-rotational mechanisms, which drive mechanism component orportion thereof is configured at least to effect rotation of therotational components and the counter-rotational mechanisms such thatthe first and third rotational components rotate in a first directionand the second rotational component rotates in a second direction.Typically, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof isconfigured to effect rotation of the rotational components and thecounter-rotational mechanisms such that the first and third rotationalcomponents rotate in a second direction and the second rotationalcomponent rotates in a first direction. In some embodiments, the rotarymechanisms of the invention include more than three rotationalcomponents (e.g., 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more rotational components).In certain embodiments, the second rotational component is disposedbetween the first and third rotational components. Optionally, at leastone of the rotational components comprises one or more gear componentsthat are configured to operably engage one or more implements rotatablycoupled to one or more other rotational components. In certainembodiments, at least the first counter-rotational mechanism comprisesat least a first gear component disposed on the first rotationalcomponent, at least a second gear component disposed on the secondrotational component, and at least a third gear component that operablyengages the first and second gear components such that when the firstgear component rotates in the first direction, the second and third gearcomponents rotate in the second direction and when the first gearcomponent rotates in the second direction, the second and third gearcomponents rotate in the first direction. In some of these embodiments,the rotary mechanism includes a retaining mechanism that retains thethird gear component operably engaged with the first and second gearcomponents. In some of these embodiments, the second gear componentsubstantially defines a gear receiving area that is configured toreceive at least a portion of the third gear component. Gear componentsused with the rotary units, rotary mechanisms, and other applications ofthe invention typically include gear teeth. Any operable gear toothconfiguration and/or type are optionally used in the rotary units,rotary mechanisms and applications of the invention.

In one aspect, the invention provides a rotary unit that includes atleast a first rotational component configured to rotate around arotational axis, which first rotational component comprises at leastfirst and second surfaces. The first surface comprises one or more gearcomponents that are configured to operably engage one or more gearcomponents of at least a second rotational component (e.g., of a secondrotary unit, etc.) when the first rotational component is disposedproximal to the second rotational component such that when the firstrotational component rotates in a first direction, the second rotationalcomponent rotates in a second direction. The second surface comprisesone or more gear components that are configured to operably engage oneor more gear components of at least a third rotational component (e.g.,of a third rotary unit, etc.) when the first rotational component isdisposed proximal to the third rotational component such that when thefirst rotational component rotates in the first direction, the thirdrotational component rotates in the second direction. In addition, atleast one surface of the first rotational component comprises at leastone implement, which surface is configured to rotate substantiallynon-perpendicular to the rotational axis. In some embodiments, thesurface of the first rotational component that comprises the implementis configured to rotate substantially parallel to the rotational axis.In some embodiments, the first surface comprises one or more sun gearcomponents. In certain embodiments, the second surface comprises one ormore ring gear components. In some embodiments, a rotational mechanismcomprises the rotary unit. In some embodiments, at least one of thesurfaces of the first rotational component comprises at least onefriction reducing material. In certain of these embodiments, forexample, the friction reducing material is selected from, e.g., acoating, a lubricant, a surface feature, a roller ball, and the like.

In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary mechanism thatincludes at least two rotary units that each comprises at least onerotational component that comprises at least a first gear component, andat least one second gear component configured to operably engage thefirst gear component. The rotary mechanism also includes at least onedrive mechanism component or portion thereof that operably engages atleast the second gear components of at least first and second rotaryunits. The drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured toeffect rotation of the second gear components such that the rotationalcomponent of the first rotary unit rotates in a first direction and therotational component of the second rotary unit rotates in a seconddirection. In some embodiments, the first gear component comprises atleast one ring gear component. In certain embodiments, at least onesurface of at least one of the rotational components comprises at leastone implement. In these embodiments, the surface is optionallyconfigured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to a rotationalaxis of the rotational components. In other of these embodiments, thesurface is optionally configured to rotate substantially parallel to arotational axis of the rotational components. In some embodiments, therotary mechanism includes at least one positioning component that isconfigured to position the rotary units relative to one another. In someof these embodiments, the positioning component comprises a framestructure. Optionally, at least one surface of the positioning componentcomprises at least one friction reducing material.

In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary mechanism thatincludes at least two rotary units that each comprise at least onerotational component that comprises at least one sun gear component andat least one ring gear component, and at least one gear structure thatcomprises at least one support component and at least one planetary gearcomponent rotatably coupled to the support component. The planetary gearcomponent is configured to operably engage the ring gear component. Inaddition, the sun gear component of at least a first rotary unitoperably engages the planetary gear component of at least a secondrotary unit such that when the rotational component of the first rotaryunit rotates in a first direction, the rotational component of thesecond rotary unit rotates in a second direction. In some embodiments,the gear structure of the first rotary unit is operably connected to thegear structure of the second rotary unit such that the supportcomponents are substantially fixedly positioned relative to one anotherat least when the rotational component of the first rotary unit rotatesin the first direction, the rotational component of the second rotaryunit rotates in the second direction. Typically, at least one of therotational components comprises at least one implement. In someembodiments, at least two of the rotational components arenon-concentrically disposed relative to one another. In someembodiments, the rotary mechanism includes at least three, at leastfour, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, atleast nine, at least ten, or more rotary units.

In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary unit that includes atleast one rotational component comprising at least first and second gearcomponents and at least one gear structure receiving area. The firstgear component substantially fixedly extends from a first surface of therotational component. The first gear component is configured to operablyengage one or more other gear components of another rotary unit when thefirst gear component is disposed proximal to the other gear components.The second gear component substantially fixedly extends from a secondsurface of the rotational component. The second gear componentcommunicates with the gear structure receiving area. The gear structurereceiving area is configured to receive one or more gear structures orcomponents thereof. In addition, at least one surface of the rotationalcomponent comprises at least one implement. The rotary unit includes atleast one gear structure comprising at least one support component andat least a third gear component rotatably coupled to the supportcomponent. The third gear component is configured to operably engage oneor more other gear components when the third gear component is disposedproximal to the other gear components. Further, the rotational componentis configured to rotate relative to the support component, which supportcomponent is substantially fixedly positioned when the rotationalcomponent rotates relative to the support component. Typically, thefirst and second surfaces substantially oppose one another. The thirdgear component is typically configured to rotate relative to therotational component. In sonic embodiments, the first gear componentcomprises at least one sun gear component. In certain embodiments, thesecond gear component comprises at least one ring gear component. Insome embodiments, the third gear component comprises at least oneplanetary gear component. In certain embodiments, the surface of therotational component that comprises the implement is configured torotate substantially non-perpendicular to a rotational axis of therotary unit. In some embodiments, the surface of the rotationalcomponent that comprises the implement is configured to rotatesubstantially parallel to a rotational axis of the rotary unit.Typically, a rotational mechanism comprises the rotary unit.

In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary unit that includes atleast a first rotational component that comprises at least first andsecond surfaces. The first surface comprises at least a first gearcomponent and the second surface comprises at least a second gearcomponent, which first and second gear components are substantiallyfixed relative to one another. The first gear component is configured tooperably engage one or more third gear components that are configured tooperably engage one or more second gear components of at least a secondrotational component when the first rotational component is disposedproximal to the second rotational component such that when the firstrotational component rotates in a first direction, the second rotationalcomponent rotates in a second direction. The second gear component isconfigured to operably engage one or more third gear components that areconfigured to operably engage one or more first gear components of atleast a third rotational component when the first rotational componentis disposed proximal to the third rotational component such that whenthe first rotational component rotates in the first direction, the thirdrotational component rotates in the second direction. In addition, thethird gear components are configured to rotate in substantially fixedpositions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the first gearcomponent comprises at least one sun gear component. In certainembodiments, the second gear component comprises at least one ring gearcomponent. In some embodiments, the third gear components comprise atleast one planetary gear component. Typically, one or more gearstructures comprise the third gear components. Some embodiments, arotational mechanism comprises the rotary unit. Typically, at least onesurface of the first rotational component comprises at least oneimplement. In some of these embodiments, the surface of the firstrotational component that comprises the implement is configured torotate substantially non-perpendicular to a rotational axis of therotary unit. In some of these embodiments, the surface of the firstrotational component that comprises the implement is configured torotate substantially parallel to a rotational axis of the rotary unit.

In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary mechanism thatincludes at least first, second, and third rotational components inwhich at least one of the rotational components comprises at least oneimplement. The rotary mechanism also includes at least first and secondcounter-rotational mechanisms in which the first counter-rotationalmechanism operably engages at least the first and second rotationalcomponents. The second counter-rotational mechanism operably engages atleast the second and third rotational components. Further, at leastportions of the first and second counter-rotational mechanisms aresubstantially fixedly positioned relative to one another. In addition,the rotary mechanism also includes at least one drive mechanismcomponent or a portion thereof operably engaged with one or more of therotational components and/or with one or more of the counter-rotationalmechanisms. The drive mechanism component or portion thereof isconfigured at least to effect rotation of the rotational components andthe counter-rotational mechanisms such that the first and thirdrotational components rotate in a first direction and the secondrotational component rotates in a second direction.

In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary unit that includes atleast a first rotational component that comprises at least one sun gearcomponent and at least one ring gear component. The sun gear componentis configured to operably engage one or more gear components of at leasta second rotational component such that when the first rotationalcomponent rotates in a first direction the second rotational componentrotates in a second direction. The ring gear component at leastpartially defines at least one gear structure receiving area. The rotaryunit also includes at least one gear structure at least partiallydisposed in the gear structure receiving area. The gear structurecomprises at least one support component and at least one planetary gearcomponent rotatably coupled to the support component. The supportcomponent is substantially fixedly positioned when the planetary gearcomponent rotates relative to the support component. The planetary gearcomponent is configured to operably engage the ring gear component andone or more gear components of at least a third rotational componentsuch that when the first rotational component rotates in the firstdirection the third rotational component rotates in the seconddirection. In some embodiments, the support component is configured tooperably engage one or more other support components of one or moreother rotational components such that the support components aresubstantially fixedly positioned relative to one another when therotational components rotate. Typically, the first rotational componentcomprises at least one implement. In some embodiments, a rotarymechanism comprises the rotary unit.

In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary mechanism thatincludes at least one drive mechanism component or a portion thereofcomprising at least one ring gear component and at least one gearstructure that comprises at least one support component and at least oneplanetary gear component rotatably coupled to the support component,which planetary gear component is configured to operably engage the ringgear component. In addition, the rotary mechanism also includes at leastone rotary unit that comprises at least one rotational componentcomprising at least one ring gear component and at least one sun gearcomponent, and at least one gear structure that comprises at least onesupport component and at least one planetary gear component rotatablycoupled to the support component, which planetary gear component isconfigured to operably engage the ring gear component. The planetarygear component of the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof isconfigured to operably engage the sun gear component of the rotary unitsuch that when the drive mechanism component or a portion thereofeffects rotation of the ring gear component of the drive mechanismcomponent or a portion thereof in a first direction, the rotationalcomponent of the rotary unit rotates in a second direction. In someembodiments, at least one of the rotational components and/or the ringgear component of the drive mechanism component or the portion thereofcomprises at least one implement. In some embodiments, the gearstructure of the drive mechanism component or the portion thereof isoperably connected to the gear structure of the rotary unit such thatthe support components are substantially fixedly positioned relative toone another at least when the ring gear component of the drive mechanismcomponent or the portion thereof rotates in the first direction, therotational component of the rotary unit rotates in the second direction.In certain embodiments, the rotary mechanism includes at least three, atleast four, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight,at least nine, at least ten, or more rotary units.

In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary or rotationalmechanism that includes at least a first rotary unit that comprises atleast one rotational component that comprises at least first and secondsun gear components. The rotational mechanism also includes at least asecond rotary unit that comprises at least one rotational component thatcomprises at least first and second ring gear components. In addition,the rotational mechanism also includes at least a first planetary gearcomponent that is configured to operably engage the second sun gearcomponent of the first rotary unit and the first ring gear component ofthe second rotary unit such that when the rotational component of thefirst rotary unit rotates in a first direction, the rotational componentof the second rotary unit rotates in a second direction.

In some embodiments, the rotational components of the first and secondrotary units are configured to rotate at different rates relative to oneanother. In some embodiments, the rotational mechanism includes at leastone gear structure that comprises at least one support component inwhich the first planetary gear component is rotatably coupled to thesupport component. In certain embodiments, the rotational mechanismincludes at least a second planetary gear component that is configuredto operably engage one or more gear components of at least a thirdrotary unit and the second ring gear component of the second rotary unitsuch that when the rotational component of the second rotary unitrotates in the second direction, a rotational component of the thirdrotary unit rotates in the first direction.

In some embodiments, the first sun gear component of the first rotaryunit is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of atleast a fourth rotary unit such that when the rotational component ofthe first rotary unit rotates in the first direction, a rotationalcomponent of the fourth rotary unit rotates in the second direction. Insome of these embodiments, the first sun gear component of the firstrotary unit is configured to operably engage the one or more gearcomponents of the fourth rotary unit via one or more planetary gearcomponents.

In certain embodiments, the rotational mechanism includes more than tworotary units. In some of these embodiments, a sum of rotational rates ofthe rotational components of a first pair of neighboring rotary units isconfigured to be substantially identical to a sum of rotational rates ofthe rotational components of a second pair of neighboring rotary unitswhen the rotational components rotate relative to one another.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cleaning device thatincludes at least one head component that comprises at least onecleaning material support component and at least one cleaning surfacecomponent. In some embodiments, the cleaning surface component comprisesat least one elevational element. The cleaning material supportcomponent comprises at least one cleaning material support componentsurface that at least partially defines at least one cleaning materialcartridge receiving area. The cleaning material support componentcomprises at least one opening such that the cleaning material cartridgereceiving area communicates with the cleaning surface component. Inaddition, the cleaning material cartridge receiving area is configuredto receive at least one cleaning material cartridge comprising cleaningmaterial such that at least a portion of the cleaning material ismovable to and/or from the cleaning material cartridge receiving area toextend over at least a portion of the cleaning surface component whenthe cleaning material cartridge is at least partially disposed in thecleaning material cartridge receiving area. The cleaning device alsoincludes at least one rotary mechanism comprising at least onerotational component that comprises at least one implement.

In some embodiments, the rotary mechanism of the cleaning devicecomprises at least first, second, and third rotational components. Inthese embodiments, the rotary mechanism also includes at least first andsecond counter-rotational mechanisms. The first counter-rotationalmechanism operably engages at least the first and second rotationalcomponents. The second counter-rotational mechanism operably engages atleast the second and third rotational components. In these embodiments,the rotary mechanism also includes at least one drive mechanismcomponent or a portion thereof operably engaged with one or more of therotational components and/or with one or more of the counter-rotationalmechanisms, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof isconfigured at least to effect rotation of the rotational components andthe counter-rotational mechanisms such that the first and thirdrotational components rotate in a first direction and the secondrotational component rotates in a second direction. In some of theseembodiments, the implement comprises a plurality of bristles.

In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes at least onepositioning mechanism component that is configured to selectivelyposition the cleaning material at least relative to the cleaningmaterial support component when the cleaning material cartridge is atleast partially disposed in the cleaning material cartridge receivingarea. In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes at least twocleaning material support components that are each configured to receiveat least a component of the cleaning material cartridge. In someembodiments, the cleaning device includes at least one retainingcomponent that is configured to substantially retain the cleaningmaterial cartridge at a selected position relative to the cleaningmaterial support component when the cleaning material cartridge is atleast partially disposed in the cleaning material cartridge receivingarea. In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes at least oneretaining mechanism that is configured to substantially retain thecleaning material at a selected position relative to the cleaningsurface component when the cleaning material cartridge is at leastpartially disposed in the cleaning material cartridge receiving area andthe cleaning material extends over at least the portion of the cleaningsurface component. In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes thecleaning material cartridge at least partially disposed in the cleaningmaterial cartridge receiving area of the cleaning material supportcomponent. In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes at leastone handle operably connected to the head component. In some of theseembodiments, the handle is pivotally connected to the head component viaat least one pivot mechanism.

In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes at least oneconveyance mechanism, or at least one component thereof, that isconfigured to convey at least the cleaning material over at least theportion of the cleaning surface component when the cleaning materialcartridge is at least partially disposed in the cleaning materialcartridge receiving area. In some embodiments, the conveyance mechanismis manually operated via at least one manual conveyance component. Insome embodiments, the conveyance mechanism or the component thereof isconfigured to operably engage the cleaning material cartridge to effectconveyance of the cleaning material when the cleaning material cartridgeis at least partially disposed in the cleaning material cartridgereceiving area. In some embodiments, the conveyance mechanism isconfigured to convey the cleaning material at least one selectedincremental distance. In some embodiments, the conveyance mechanismcomprises one or more gear components. In some embodiments, theconveyance mechanism comprises at least one motor component that isconfigured to effect conveyance of the cleaning material when thecleaning material cartridge is at least partially disposed in thecleaning material cartridge receiving area.

In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes at least one fluidhandling mechanism or at least one component thereof that is configuredto convey at least one fluid from at least one fluid source to at leastone fluid outlet. In some embodiments, the fluid outlet communicateswith the cleaning material cartridge or a portion thereof when thecleaning material cartridge is at least partially disposed in thecleaning material cartridge receiving area. In some embodiments, thefluid outlet is disposed proximal to at least one surface of the headcomponent. In some embodiments, the fluid outlet comprises at least onenozzle. In some embodiments, the fluid handling mechanism comprises atleast one pumping mechanism that is configured to pump the fluid fromthe fluid source to the fluid outlet. In some embodiments, the fluidhandling mechanism comprises at least one vaporization component that isconfigured to vaporize the fluid at least proximal to the fluid outlet.In some embodiments, the fluid source and fluid outlet communicate viaat least one fluid conduit. In some embodiments, the fluid sourcecomprises at least one fluid container. In some of these embodiments,the fluid container is removable.

In another aspect, the invention provides a device that includes atleast two rotational units, and at least one rotary mechanism configuredto operably engage at least one of the rotational units to effectcounter-rotation of neighboring pairs of the rotational units. In someembodiments, at least one of the rotational units comprises at least onepropeller unit.

In another aspect, the invention provides a device that includes atleast two rotational units in which at least one of the rotational unitscomprises at least one implement and at least one gear component, and atleast one rotary mechanism that operably engages the gear component suchthat when the rotary mechanism rotates, neighboring pairs of rotationalunits counter-rotate relative to one another. In some embodiments, thedevice includes at least three, at least four, at least five, at leastsix, at least seven, at least eight, at least nine, at least ten, ormore rotational units. In certain embodiments, the implement comprisesat least one propeller component. In some embodiments, at least onesurface of the at least one rotational unit comprises the gearcomponent, which surface is configured to rotate substantiallynon-perpendicular to a rotational axis of the rotational units and/orthe rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, the gear component isdisposed at least partially around the implement. In some embodiments,the rotary mechanism comprises at least two rotary units that operablyengage gear components of different rotational units in which the rotaryunits are configured to counter-rotate relative to one another. In someembodiments, at least one of the rotational units and/or the rotarymechanism comprises at least one rotational alignment component. Incertain embodiments, the device includes at least one drive mechanismoperably connected to the rotational units and/or to the rotarymechanism. In some embodiments, the device includes at least onepositioning component (e.g., a housing, a frame structure, or the like)configured to position the rotational units and the rotary mechanismrelative to one another. In some embodiments, the device includes atleast two rotary mechanisms, wherein at least a first rotary mechanismoperably engages the gear component of at least a first rotational unit,wherein at least a second rotary mechanism operably engages the gearcomponent of at least a second rotational unit, and wherein the firstrotary mechanism is configured to rotate in at least a first directionand the second rotary mechanism is configured to rotate in at least asecond direction such that when the first and second rotary mechanismsrotate, the first rotational unit rotates in the first direction and thesecond rotational unit rotates in the second direction. In some of theseembodiments, the first rotary mechanism operably engages the gearcomponents of at least a first set of non-neighboring rotational unitsand wherein the second rotary mechanism operably engages the gearcomponents of at least a second set of non-neighboring rotational units.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cleaning device thatincludes at least one rotary mechanism that comprises at least tworotational components that are non-concentrically disposed relative toone another and are configured to counter-rotate relative to one anotheraround a rotational axis in which at least one surface of at least oneof the rotational components comprises at least one implement (e.g.,bristles or the like), which surface is configured to rotatesubstantially non-perpendicular to the rotational axis. In someembodiments, the rotary mechanism comprises at least three, at leastfour, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, atleast nine, at least ten, or more rotational components. In someembodiments, the cleaning device includes at least one head component inwhich the rotary mechanism is at least partially disposed within thehead component. Optionally, at least one handle is operably connected tothe head component.

In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes at least one fluidhandling mechanism or at least one component thereof that is configuredto convey at least one fluid from at least one fluid source to at leastone fluid outlet certain embodiments, the fluid outlet is disposedproximal to at least one surface of a head component. In someembodiments, the fluid outlet comprises at least one nozzle. In certainembodiments, the fluid handling mechanism comprises at least one pumpingmechanism that is configured to pump the fluid from the fluid source tothe fluid outlet. In some embodiments, the fluid handling mechanismcomprises at least one vaporization component that is configured tovaporize the fluid at least proximal to the fluid outlet. In someembodiments, the fluid source and fluid outlet communicate via at leastone fluid conduit. In certain embodiments, the fluid source comprises atleast one fluid container. In some embodiments, the fluid container isremovable.

In certain embodiments, the cleaning device includes at least onesuction component that comprises at least one inlet and at least oneoutlet. Typically, the suction component comprises at least one vacuumsource. In some embodiments, the inlet is disposed proximal to therotary mechanism and/or a head component that at least partiallycomprises the rotary mechanism. In some embodiments, the cleaning deviceincludes at least one waste container in which the outlet of the suctioncomponent communicates with the waste container. In some embodiments,the outlet and the waste container communicate via at least one conduit.In certain embodiments, the waste container is removable.

In another aspect, the invention provides methods of rotatingimplements. In some embodiments, the methods include providing a rotarymechanism comprising at least two rotary units that each comprises atleast one rotational component that comprises at least a first gearcomponent, and at least one second gear component configured to operablyengage the first gear component; and, at least one drive mechanismcomponent or portion thereof that operably engages at least the secondgear components of at least first and second rotary units, wherein atleast one surface of at least one of the rotational components comprisesat least one implement; and, moving at least the portion of the drivemechanism such that the rotational component of the first rotary unitrotates in a first direction and the rotational component of the secondrotary unit rotates in a second direction, thereby rotating theimplement.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method of rotating animplement. The method includes providing a rotary mechanism comprising:at least first, second, and third rotational components, wherein atleast one of the rotational components comprises at least one implement;at least first and second counter-rotational mechanisms, wherein thefirst counter-rotational mechanism operably engages at least the firstand second rotational components, wherein the second counter-rotationalmechanism operably engages at least the second and third rotationalcomponents, and wherein at least portions of the first and secondcounter-rotational mechanisms are substantially fixedly positionedrelative to one another; and at least one drive mechanism component or aportion thereof operably engaged with one or more of the rotationalcomponents and/or with one or more of the counter-rotational mechanisms.The method also includes moving the drive mechanism component and/or theportion thereof such that the first and third rotational componentsrotate in a first direction and the second rotational component rotatesin a second direction, thereby rotating the implement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description provided herein is better understood when read inconjunction with the accompanying drawings which are included by way ofexample and not by way of limitation. It will be understood that likereference numerals identify like components throughout the drawings,unless the context indicates otherwise. It will also be understood thatsome or all of the figures may be schematic representations for purposesof illustration and do not necessarily depict the actual relative sizesor locations of the elements shown. In addition, in certain figuresimplements are schematically illustrated as cross-hatches on rotaryunits.

FIG. 1A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 1A from a rear side view. FIG. 1Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 1A from a side view. FIG.1D schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of FIG. 1Afrom a rear side view. FIG. 1E schematically illustrates the gearstructure of FIG. 1D from a front side view. FIG. 1F schematically showsthe gear structure of FIG. 1D from a side view. FIG. 1G schematicallyillustrates a sectional view of the rotary unit of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1Hschematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of FIG. 1A. FIG.1I schematically depicts a partially exploded view of the rotary unit ofFIG. 1A.

FIGS. 2A-F schematically show side elevational views of variousexemplary implements.

FIG. 3A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 3A from a rear side view. FIG. 3Cschematically shows the rotary unit of FIG. 3A from a side view. FIG. 3Dschematically depicts a sectional view of the rotary unit of FIG. 3A.FIG. 3E schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of FIG.3A from a rear side view. FIG. 3F schematically shows a gear structureof the rotary unit of FIG. 3A from a front side view. FIG. 3Gschematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of FIG. 3A froma side view.

FIG. 4A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 4A from a rear side view. FIG. 4Cschematically shows the rotary unit of FIG. 4A from a side view. FIG. 4Dschematically depicts a sectional view of the rotary unit of FIG. 4A.FIG. 4E schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of FIG.4A from a front side view. FIG. 4F schematically shows a gear structureof the rotary unit of FIG. 4A from a rear side view. FIG. 4Gschematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of FIG. 4A froma side view.

FIG. 5A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5B schematicallyshows a sectional view of the rotary unit of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A schematically shows a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6B schematicallyillustrates the rotary unit of FIG. 6A from a side view. FIG. 6Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 6A from a rear side view.FIG. 6D schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of FIG.6A. FIG. 6E schematically illustrates a gear structure of the rotaryunit of FIG. 6A from a rear side view. FIG. 6F schematically shows thegear structure of FIG. 6E from a front side view. FIG. 6G schematicallyillustrates the gear structure of FIG. 6E from a front side view.

FIG. 7A schematically shows a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 7B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 7A from a rear side view. FIG. 7Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 7A from a side view.

FIG. 8A schematically shows a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 8B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 8A from a rear side view. FIG. 8Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 8A from a side view.

FIG. 9A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 9A from a rear side view. FIG. 9Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 9A from a side view. FIG.9D schematically shows schematically shows a sectional view of therotary unit of FIG. 9A. FIG. 9E schematically illustrates a sectionalview of the rotary unit of FIG. 9A. FIG. 9F schematically shows a gearstructure of the rotary unit of FIG. 9A from a rear side view. FIG. 9Gschematically illustrates the gear structure of FIG. 9F from a frontside view. FIG. 9H schematically shows the gear structure of FIG. 9Ffrom a side view. FIG. 9I schematically depicts a partially explodedview of the rotary unit of FIG. 9A. FIG. 9J schematically shows therotary unit of FIG. 9A with implements from a rear side view. FIG. 9Kschematically shows the rotary unit of FIG. 9A with implements from afront side view. FIG. 9L schematically shows the rotary unit of FIG. 9Awith implements from a side view.

FIG. 10A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 10B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 10A from a rear side view. FIG. 10Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 10A from a side view. FIG.10D schematically shows schematically shows a sectional view of therotary unit of FIG. 10A. FIG. 10E schematically shows a gear structureof the rotary unit of FIG. 10A from a front side view. FIG. 10Fschematically illustrates the gear structure of FIG. 10E from a rearside view. FIG. 10G schematically shows the gear structure of FIG. 10Efrom a side view. FIG. 10H schematically illustrates a sectional view ofthe rotary unit of FIG. 10A. FIG. 10I schematically depicts the rotaryunit of FIG. 10A including a friction reducing material from a frontside view. FIG. 10J schematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 10Aincluding a friction reducing material from a side view. FIG. 10Kschematically shows the rotary unit of FIG. 10I with implements from afront side view. FIG. 10L schematically shows the rotary unit of FIG.10A with implements from a rear side view. FIG. 10M schematically showsthe rotary unit of FIG. 10I with implements from a side view.

FIG. 11A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 11B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 11A from a rear side view. FIG. 11Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 11A from a side view. FIG.11D schematically shows schematically shows a sectional view of therotary unit of FIG. 11A. FIG. 11E schematically shows the rotary unit ofFIG. 11A with implements from a front side view. FIG. 11F schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 11A with implements from a rear side view.FIG. 11G schematically shows the rotary unit of FIG. 11A with implementsfrom a side view.

FIG. 12A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 12B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 12A from a rear side view. FIG. 12Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 12A from a side view. FIG.12D schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of FIG. 12Afrom a front side view. FIG. 12E schematically illustrates the gearstructure of FIG. 12D from a rear side view. FIG. 12F schematicallyshows the gear structure of FIG. 12D from a side view.

FIG. 13A schematically illustrates a rotational component of a rotaryunit from a front side view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 13B schematically shows a sectional view of therotational component of FIG. 13A. FIG. 13C schematically depicts therotational component of FIG. 13A from a side view. FIG. 13Dschematically shows a gear component used in the rotary unit referred towith respect to FIG. 13A from a front side view. FIG. 13E schematicallyillustrates the gear component of FIG. 13D from a side view.

FIG. 14A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 14B schematicallydepicts the rotary unit of FIG. 14A from a side view. FIG. 14Cschematically shows the rotary unit of FIG. 14A from a rear side view.FIG. 14D schematically shows a sectional view of the gear structure ofFIG. 14A.

FIG. 15A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 15B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 15A from a rear side view. FIG. 15Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 15A from a side view. FIG.15D schematically shows schematically shows a sectional view of therotary unit of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16A schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 16B schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 16A from a rear side view. FIG. 16Cschematically depicts the rotary unit of FIG. 16A from a side view. FIG.16D schematically shows schematically shows a sectional view of therotary unit of FIG. 16A. FIG. 16E schematically illustrates a planetarygear component from a front side view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 16F schematically illustrates the planetary gearcomponent of FIG. 16E from a side view. FIG. 16G schematically shows anexploded side view of a gear structure according to one embodiment ofthe invention. FIG. 16H schematically depicts the gear structure of FIG.16G from a side view. FIG. 16I schematically shows the gear structure ofFIG. 16H from a rear side view. FIG. 16J schematically shows the gearstructure of FIG. 16H from a front side view. FIG. 16K schematicallyillustrates a gear structure prior to assembly with another gearstructure from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.FIG. 16L schematically shows an assembly that includes two gearstructures from a side view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 16M schematically shows an exploded view of the rotaryunit of FIG. 16A with the gear structure of FIG. 16G from a side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 16N schematicallyshows the rotary unit of FIG. 16A with the gear structure of FIG. 16Gfrom a front side view. FIG. 16G schematically shows the rotary unit ofFIG. 16A with the gear structure of FIG. 16G from a rear side view. FIG.16P schematically shows the rotary unit of FIG. 16A with the gearstructure of FIG. 16G from a side view. FIG. 16Q schematically shows asectional view of the rotary unit of FIG. 16A with the gear structure ofFIG. 16G.

FIG. 17A schematically depicts rotary units and a shaft from sideelevational views prior to assembly according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 17B schematically illustrates the rotary units and theshaft from FIG. 17A from side devotional views in an assembled format.

FIG. 18A schematically shows rotary units prior to assembly of a rotarymechanism from side views according to one embodiment of the invention.FIG. 18B schematically shows a partially assembled rotary mechanism withthe rotary units of FIG. 18A from side views. FIG. 18C schematicallyillustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotary units of FIG.18A from a side view.

FIG. 19A schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism that includes therotary unit of FIG. 9A from a sectional view prior to assembly accordingto one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 19B schematically depicts therotary mechanism of FIG. 19A from a sectional view following assembly.FIG. 19C schematically shows a portion of a rotary mechanism thatincludes the rotary unit of FIG. 9A with implements from a side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20A schematically illustrates a positioning component of a rotarymechanism from aside view according to one embodiment of the invention.FIG. 20B schematically depicts a portion of a rotary mechanism thatincludes the rotational component of FIG. 13A from a side view accordingto one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 20C schematically depicts aportion of a rotary mechanism that includes the rotational component ofFIG. 13A and gear component of FIG. 13D from a side view according toone embodiment of the invention. FIG. 20D schematically shows theportion of the rotary mechanism of FIG. 20B from a sectional view. FIG.20E schematically depicts the positioning component of FIG. 20A from aside view. FIG. 20F schematically shows the positioning component ofFIG. 20A with a drive mechanism from a side view. FIG. 20G schematicallyillustrates a positioning component of a rotary mechanism from a sidevim according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 20H schematicallyillustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotational component ofFIG. 13A from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.FIG. 20I schematically shows the rotary mechanism of FIG. 20H from asectional view. FIG. 20J schematically shows the rotary mechanism ofFIG. 20H from a front side view. FIG. 20K schematically shows the rotarymechanism of FIG. 20H from a rear side view. FIG. 20L schematicallydepicts a portion of a drive mechanism from a side view according to oneembodiment of the invention. FIG. 20M schematically depicts a portion ofa drive mechanism from a side view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 20N schematically depicts the portion of the drivemechanism of FIG. 20M without a motor from a side view. FIG. 20Oschematically depicts the portion of the drive mechanism of FIG. 20Mfrom a side view.

FIG. 21A schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism that includes therotary unit of FIG. 14A from a sectional view prior to assemblyaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 21B schematicallydepicts the rotary mechanism of FIG. 21A from a sectional view followingassembly. FIG. 21C schematically shows the rotary of FIG. 21A from aside view. FIG. 21D schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism thatincludes the rotary unit of FIG. 14A with implements from a side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 21E schematicallyillustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotary unit of FIG. 14Awith implements from a side view according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 22A schematically illustrates a gear structure from the rotary unitof FIG. 14A prior to assembly with another gear structure from a sideview according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 22Bschematically shows an assembly of multiple gear structures from a sideview according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 22Cschematically depicts the gear structure assembly of FIG. 22B from arear side view. FIG. 22D schematically depicts the gear structureassembly of FIG. 22B from a front side view. FIG. 22E schematicallyshows a rotary mechanism that includes the gear structure assembly ofFIG. 22B from a sectional view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 22F schematically shows a rotary mechanism that includesthe gear structure assembly of FIG. 22B from a side view according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23A schematically depicts a rotational mechanism from an explodedside view according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 23Bschematically depicts the rotational mechanism from FIG. 23A from a sideview. FIG. 23C schematically depicts the rotational mechanism from FIG.23A from an exploded sectional view. FIG. 23D schematically depicts therotational mechanism from FIG. 23A from a sectional side view. FIG. 23Eschematically shows a portion of a drive mechanism component from afront side view according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 23Fschematically shows the portion of the drive mechanism component of FIG.23E from a rear side view. FIG. 23G schematically shows the portion ofthe drive mechanism component of FIG. 23E from a side view. FIG. 23Hschematically shows the portion of the drive mechanism component of FIG.23E from a sectional side view. FIG. 23I schematically shows an explodedside view of a gear structure according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 23J schematically depicts the gear structure from FIG.23I from a rear side view. FIG. 23K schematically depicts the gearstructure from FIG. 23I from a side view. FIG. 23L schematically depictsthe gear structure from FIG. 231 from a front side view. FIG. 23Mschematically shows an exploded side view of the drive mechanismcomponent of FIG. 23E and the gear structure of FIG. 23I according toone embodiment of the invention. FIG. 23N schematically shows anexploded sectional side view of the drive mechanism component of FIG.23E and the gear structure of FIG. 23I according to one embodiment ofthe invention. FIG. 23O schematically depicts the drive mechanismcomponent of FIG. 23E and the gear structure of FIG. 23I from a sideview. FIG. 23P schematically depicts the drive mechanism component ofFIG. 23E and the gear structure of FIG. 23I from sectional side view.FIG. 23Q schematically depicts an exploded side view of the rotationalmechanism from FIG. 23B and the portion of the drive mechanism componentof FIG. 23E according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 23Rschematically depicts an exploded side sectional view of the rotationalmechanism from FIG. 23B and the portion of the drive mechanism componentof FIG. 23E according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 23Sschematically depicts aside view of the rotational mechanism from FIG.23B and the portion of the drive mechanism component of FIG. 23Eaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 23T schematicallydepicts a sectional side view of the rotational mechanism from FIG. 23Band the portion of the drive mechanism component of FIG. 23E accordingto one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24A schematically illustrates a rotor tiller that includes a rotarymechanism from a front elevational view according to one embodiment ofthe invention. FIG. 24B schematically illustrates the rotor tiller fromFIG. 24A from a side elevational view.

FIG. 25A schematically illustrates a vehicle that includes rotarymechanisms from a side elevational view according to one embodiment ofthe invention. FIG. 25B schematically illustrates a vehicle thatincludes rotary mechanisms from a side elevational view according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26A schematically shows a rotary mechanism of a hair cutting devicefrom a side elevational view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 26B schematically shows a removable structure of a haircutting device from a side elevational view according to one embodimentof the invention. FIG. 26C schematically shows the rotary mechanism ofFIG. 26A positioned in a housing of a hair cutting device from a partialcross-sectional view according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG.26D schematically shows the rotary mechanism of FIG. 26A positioned in ahousing of a hair cutting device prior to placing a removable structurein an opening of the housing from side elevational views according toone embodiment of the invention. FIG. 26E schematically shows the haircutting device from FIG. 26D with the removable structure positioned inthe opening of the housing from a side elevational view according to oneembodiment of the invention. FIG. 26F schematically illustrates a personshaving facial hair using the hair cutting device from FIG. 26E from aside devotional view according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG.26G schematically illustrates a cross-section of the hair cutting devicefrom FIG. 26E.

FIG. 27A schematically illustrates a partially exploded view of a toothbrushing device according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 27Bschematically shows an assembled tooth brushing device from FIG. 27Afrom a side view. FIG. 27C schematically depicts the tooth brushingdevice of FIG. 27B from a top side view. FIG. 27D schematically depictsa rotary mechanism from the tooth brushing device of FIG. 27B from aside view.

FIG. 28A schematically shows a rotary mechanism for a tooth brushingdevice from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.FIG. 28B schematically depicts a toothbrush head component that includesthe rotary mechanism of FIG. 28A from a side view according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 schematically illustrates a cleaning device from a side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30A schematically illustrates an exploded view of a propulsiondevice according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 30Bschematically shows the propulsion device of FIG. 30A from a partiallyexploded view. FIG. 30C schematically shows the propulsion device ofFIG. 30A from a partially exploded view. FIG. 30D schematicallyillustrates the propulsion device of FIG. 30A from a side view. FIG. 30Eschematically shows the propulsion device of FIG. 30A from a front sideview. FIG. 30F schematically shows the propulsion device of FIG. 30Afrom a rear side view.

FIG. 31A schematically illustrates the propulsion device of FIG. 30Adisposed within a housing from a front side view according to oneembodiment of the invention. FIG. 31B schematically illustrates thepropulsion device of FIG. 30A disposed within a housing from a rear sideview according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 31Cschematically illustrates the propulsion device of FIG. 30A disposedwithin a housing from a side view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 31D schematically illustrates the propulsion device ofFIG. 30A disposed within a housing from a partially sectional front sideview according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 31Eschematically illustrates the propulsion device of FIG. 30A disposedwithin a housing from a partially sectional side view according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 32A schematically shows a propulsion device including rotarymechanisms from a partially exploded view according to one embodiment ofthe invention. FIG. 32B schematically illustrates the propulsion deviceof FIG. 32A from a side view. FIG. 32C schematically shows thepropulsion device of FIG. 32A from a front side view. FIG. 32Dschematically shows the propulsion device of FIG. 32A from a rear sideview.

FIG. 33A schematically shows a boat that includes propulsion devicesfrom a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 33Bschematically illustrates the boat of FIG. 33A from a front side view.

FIG. 34A schematically shows an aircraft that includes propulsiondevices from a front side view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 34B schematically illustrates the aircraft of FIG. 34Afrom a side view.

FIG. 35A schematically shows a cleaning device that includes a rotarymechanism from a sectional view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 35B schematically shows the cleaning device of FIG. 35Afrom a side view.

FIG. 36A schematically depicts a rotary mechanism from a top viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 36B schematicallyillustrates the rotary mechanism of FIG. 36A from a side view. FIG. 36Cschematically illustrates the rotary mechanism of FIG. 36A from a frontside view. FIG. 36D schematically illustrates the rotary mechanism ofFIG. 36A from a rear side view. FIG. 36E schematically shows a headcomponent of a cleaning device that includes the rotary mechanism ofFIG. 36A from an exploded side view. FIG. 36F schematically shows thehead component of FIG. 36A from a sectional view. FIG. 36G schematicallyshows a cleaning device that includes the head component of FIG. 36Afrom a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 37 schematically shows a rotary mechanism from a top side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 38 schematically shows a cleaning device that includes a rotarymechanism from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 39 schematically shows a cleaning device that includes the rotarymechanism of FIG. 37A from a side view according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 40A schematically shows a cleaning device that includes the rotarymechanism of FIG. 37A and removable fluid containers prior to assemblyfrom a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 40Bschematically shows the cleaning device of FIG. 40A following assemblyfrom a side view.

FIGS. 41A-Q schematically show a cleaning device or implement, acleaning material component, or components thereof from various viewsaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 41Aschematically illustrates a head component of a cleaning device thatincludes the rotary mechanism of FIG. 21E from a side view according toone embodiment of the invention. FIG. 41B schematically shows the headcomponent of the cleaning device of FIG. 41A including a cleaningmaterial cartridge from a side view. FIG. 41C schematically depicts thecleaning device of FIG. 41A with an exemplary retaining component in aclosed position from a side view. FIG. 41D schematically depicts thecleaning device of FIG. 41A with components of an exemplary fluidhandling mechanism from a side view. FIG. 41E schematically shows acleaning material cartridge being inserted into the cleaning materialsupport component of the cleaning device of FIG. 41A from a side view.FIG. 41F schematically shows a cleaning material cartridge operablyengaging a conveyance mechanism of the cleaning device of FIG. 41A froma top side view. FIG. 41G schematically depicts the head component ofthe cleaning device of FIG. 41A from a sectional top side view. FIG. 41Hschematically depicts a cleaning material cartridge of the cleaningdevice of FIG. 41A from a side view. FIG. 50I schematically depicts acleaning material cartridge of the cleaning device of FIG. 41A from aside view. FIG. 41J schematically depicts a cleaning material cartridgeof the cleaning device of FIG. 41A from a top side view. FIG. 41Kschematically shows a cleaning material cartridge of the cleaning deviceof FIG. 41A from a bottom side view. FIG. 41L schematically depicts acleaning material cartridge of the cleaning device of FIG. 41A from aside view. FIG. 41M schematically shows a sectional view of a cleaningmaterial support component of a cleaning material cartridge according toone embodiment of the invention. FIG. 41N schematically shows the headcomponent of a cleaning device of FIG. 41A with a handle and a removablefluid container being positioned relative to the cleaning device from aside view. FIG. 41O schematically shows the head component of a cleaningdevice of FIG. 41A with a handle from a side view. FIG. 41Pschematically shows the cleaning device of FIG. 41O with a handle from afront side view. FIG. 41Q schematically depicts the head component ofthe cleaning device of FIG. 41A including an elevational element from aside view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION I. Introduction

Before describing the invention in detail, it is to be understood thatthis invention is not limited to particular methods, rotary units,rotary mechanisms, devices, or systems, which can vary. As used in thisspecification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and“the” also include plural referents unless the context clearly providesotherwise. It is also to be understood that the terminology used hereinis for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is notintended to be limiting. Further, unless defined otherwise, alltechnical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning ascommonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which thisinvention pertains. In describing and claiming the invention, thefollowing terminology, and grammatical variants thereof, will be used inaccordance with the definitions set forth below.

The term “coaxially positioned” refers to objects that are positionedrelative to one another such that they can rotate about a substantiallycoincident axis.

The term “fixed position” refers to objects that are positioned relativeto one another such that they do not move separately from one another.In some embodiments, for example, gear components (e.g., sun gearcomponents) are attached (e.g., integrally fabricated, bonded, welded,adhered, or the like) to rotational components, such that when therotational components move in one direction, the gear components move inthe same direction as the rotational components.

The term “counter-rotate” or “contra-rotate” refers to objects thatrotate in opposite directions relative to one another. In someembodiments, for example, rotary mechanisms include rotationalcomponents that are configured to rotate in opposite directions.

The term “communicate” refers to the direct or indirect transfer ortransmission, and/or capability of directly or indirectly transferringor transmitting, something at least from one thing to another thing. Insome embodiments, for example, devices include housings having openingsthrough which hair, finger nails, or the like can be transferred tocontact implements within housing cavities of the devices.

The invention relates to rotary units and rotary mechanisms that aresuitable for use in numerous applications. Rotary units typicallyinclude rotational components that are configured to rotate. In someembodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are assembled in rotarymechanisms such that neighboring pairs of rotational componentscounter-rotate or contra-rotate relative to one another during operationof the rotary mechanisms. Rotational components generally include one ormore implements that are structured to perform or effect one or moretypes of work as the rotational components rotate relative to oneanother in a given rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, implementsare configured to rotate and/or to effect the movement of othercomponents as rotational components rotate. The representativeembodiments described herein are intended to illustrate, but not tolimit, the invention. Essentially any combination of components orportions thereof described herein are optionally utilized or adapted foruse together in certain embodiments.

II Exemplary Rotary Units

FIGS. 1A-H schematically show a rotary unit or components thereofaccording to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit 100includes rotational component 102, which includes first gear component104 disposed on a first side of rotational component 102 in an innerregion of the first side) and second gear component 106 disposed on asecond side of rotational component 102 (e.g., in an outer region of thesecond side). As shown, the first and second sides substantially opposeone another. Gear components used with the rotary units, rotarymechanisms, and other applications of the invention typically includegear teeth. Any operable gear tooth configuration and/or type areoptionally used in the rotary units, rotary mechanisms and applicationsof the invention. Second gear component 106 substantially defines gearstructure receiving area 108, which is configured to receive gearstructure 110. Gear structure 110 includes support component 112 andthird gear components 114. Third gear components 114 are configured tooperably engage second gear component 106 such that when third gearcomponents 114 rotate in a first direction, second gear component 106and rotational component 102 also rotate the first direction. Third gearcomponents 114 are configured to operably engage other gear components,such as a first gear component of another rotary unit such that when theother gear components rotate in a second direction, third gearcomponents 114, second gear component 106, and rotational component 102all rotate in the first direction. Rotary unit 100 also includesretaining mechanism 116 (shown as a wall or lip in this exemplaryembodiment) that is structured to retain gear structure 110 at leastpartially in gear structure receiving area 108. As further shown in FIG.1I, for example, in some embodiments during rotary unit assemblyretaining mechanism 116 is attached to rotational component 102, oncegear structure 110 is positioned in gear structure receiving area 108,via attachment components 118 (e.g., which clip into correspondingnotches (not within view) in rotational component 102 in thisrepresentative embodiment),

Rotary unit 100 also includes implements 120 shown as beads that can beused, for example, as part of a massaging device or the like.Essentially any implement (e.g., type(s) and/or number on a givenrotational component, etc.) is optionally adapted for use with therotary units of the present invention, e.g., depending on the intendedapplication of a given rotary unit. Representative implements that areoptionally used include one or more of, e.g., a blade, a razor, a prong,a peg, a claw, a tine, a chain, a stake, a column, a pillar, an arch, abracket, a gear component, a bristle, a plume, an abrasive component, anelastomeric component, a nail filing component, a nail buffingcomponent, a hair cutting component, a massaging component, a post, orthe like. Some exemplary implements 200-210 are also illustrated fromside elevational views in, e.g., FIGS. 2A-F.

In addition, rotary unit 100 also includes drive mechanism componentreceiving area 122 (shown as a hole disposed through rotationalcomponent 102) that is configured to receive a drive mechanismcomponent, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplarydrive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known inthe art.

FIGS. 3A-G schematically illustrate a rotary unit or components thereofaccording to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit 300includes rotational component 302, which includes first gear component304 extending from a first side, and second gear component. 306 on asecond side and substantially defining gear structure receiving area308. Rotary unit 300 also includes gear structure 310, which includesthird gear components 312 rotatably coupled to support component 314. Asalso shown, gear structure 310 includes hole 316 that is structured toalign with drive mechanism component receiving area 318 of rotationalcomponent 302, e.g., to receive a drive mechanism component, such as adrive shaft about which gear structure 310 and rotational component 302rotate.

Rotary unit 300 also includes a retaining mechanism that is configuredto retain gear structure 310 in position relative to rotationalcomponent 302 such that the components can operably engage one anotherduring operation. The retaining mechanism of rotary unit 300 includesgroove or track 320 disposed approximately around gear structurereceiving area 308 in rotational component 302. In addition, theretaining mechanism also includes projections 322 of gear structure 310that insert into groove or track 320 such that gear structure 310 isretained and rotates within gear structure receiving area 308.

In some embodiments, the rotational components of the rotary units ofthe invention include implements that are configured to effect themovement of one or more other components (e.g., propeller components orthe like) when the rotational components rotate and the implementsoperably engage the other components. To illustrate, rotationalcomponent 302 of rotary unit 300 also includes gear component 324 thatis configured to operably engage other gear components of othercomponents, e.g., to effect rotation of those components when rotationalcomponent 302 rotates.

FIGS. 4A-G schematically show another exemplary embodiment of a rotaryunit of the invention. As shown, rotary unit 400 includes rotationalcomponent 402 that includes first and second surfaces that substantiallyoppose one another. First gear component 404 is disposed on the firstsurface of rotational component 402 and is configured to operably engagethird gear components of another rotary unit. Second gear component 406is disposed on the second surface of rotational component 402 andsubstantially defines gear structure receiving area or cavity 408.

Rotary unit 400 also include gear structure 410, which includes supportstructure 412 and third gear components 414 rotatably coupled to supportstructure 412. Rotary unit 400 also includes a retaining mechanismformed, in part, by groove or track 416 formed in rotational component402. Circular projection 418 disposed on support structure 412 of gearstructure 410 is configured to fit within groove or track 416 such thatgear structure 410 is retained, yet permitted to rotate, within gearstructure receiving area 408. As also shown, rotary unit 400 alsoincludes implements 420 (shown as blades) extending from a surface ofrotational component 402.

FIGS. 5A and B schematically illustrate a rotary unit according toanother exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit 500includes rotational component 502. First gear component 504 extends froma first side of rotational component 502, while gear structure 506engages a second gear component in a gear structure receiving area on asecond side of rotational component 502 and partially extends from thegear structure receiving area. Gear structure includes third gearcomponents 508 rotatably coupled to support structure 510. Rotary unit500 also includes a retaining mechanism formed, in part, by groove ortrack 512 formed in the gear structure receiving area of rotationalcomponent 502. Circular projection 514 disposed on support structure 510of gear structure 506 is configured to fit within groove or track 512such that gear structure 506 is retained, yet permitted to rotate,within the gear structure receiving area of rotational component 502.First gear component 504 is configured to engage one or more third gearcomponents of another rotary unit. Third gear components 508 areconfigured to engage the second gear component in the gear structurereceiving area and a first gear component of another rotary unit.

FIGS. 6A-G schematically show a rotary unit or components thereofaccording to another representative embodiment of the invention. Asshown, rotary unit 600 includes rotational component 602. Rotationalcomponent 602 includes first gear component 604 on a first side andsecond gear component 606 on a second side. Second gear component 606substantially defines a gear structure receiving area of rotationalcomponent 602. Rotary unit 600 also includes gear structure 608 disposedwithin the gear structure receiving area. Gear structure 608 includesthird gear components 610 rotatably coupled to support component 612.Third gear components 610 are configured to operably engage second gearcomponent 606 of rotational component 602 and the first gear componentof another rotary unit or another gear component, such as a component ofa drive mechanism or the like. Gear structure 608 also includes hole oraperture 614, which is structured to align with drive mechanismcomponent receiving area 616 of rotational component 602, e.g., toreceive a drive mechanism component, such as a drive shaft about whichgear structure 608 and rotational component 602 rotate. Rotary unit 600also includes a retaining mechanism that is configured to retain andpermit gear structure 608 to rotate within the gear structure receivingarea of rotational component 602. In particular, support component 612of gear structure 608 includes partially circular indentation 618 androtational component 602 comprises projection 620 (e.g., an elevatedcircular track or the like). Projection 620 is configured to at leastpartially fit and move within partially circular indentation 618 toretain gear structure 608 at least partially within the gear structurereceiving area when second gear component 606 and third gear components610 operably engage one another. In some embodiments, gear structurescomprise projections, such as projection 620 and rotational componentscomprise the substantially or partially circular indentation (e.g., acircular track or groove structured to receive the projection).

Rotary unit 600 also includes implements 622 that are rotatably coupledto rotational component 602. As shown, rotatably coupled implements 622include gear components 624 that are configured to operably engage acorresponding gear component on a neighboring rotary unit when theneighboring rotary unit is disposed suitably proximal to rotary unit600. In these embodiments, during operation, as neighboring rotary unitscounter-rotate relative to one another, rotatably coupled implements,such as implements 622 (e.g., shown as bristles suitable for atoothbrush, household cleaning device, or the like) also rotate. Tofurther illustrate, rotary unit 600 includes gear component 626 that isconfigured to operably engage rotatably coupled implements disposed on aneighboring rotary unit.

FIGS. 7A-C schematically show a rotary unit according to one embodimentof the invention. As shown, rotary unit 700 includes rotationalcomponent 702, which includes first gear component 704 on a first side.Rotary unit 700 also includes a gear structure 706 disposed and able torotate within a gear structure receiving area rotational component 702.Lip or wall 708 retains gear structure 706 in the gear structurereceiving area. Rotary unit 700 also includes alignment components thatare structured to align rotary units relative to one another, e.g., in agiven device or other application. In particular, the first side ofrotational component 702 includes circular groove 710, white the secondside of rotational component 702 includes circular ridge 712. Circulargroove 710 is configured to receive a circular ridge (e.g., circularridge 812) of another rotary unit (e.g., rotary unit 800), whichcircular ridge is configured to rotate within circular groove 710. Incontrast, circular ridge 712 is configured to fit and rotate within acircular groove (e.g., circular groove 810) of another rotary unit(e.g., rotary unit 800). In some embodiments, the first side ofrotational component 702 includes circular ridge 712, while the secondside of rotational component 702 includes circular groove 710.

Rotary unit 700 also include drive mechanism component receiving area714 that is configured to receive a drive mechanism component (e.g.,drive mechanism component 816 (shown as a drive shaft) of rotary unit800). Rotational component 702 is configured to rotate about a drivemechanism component (e.g., drive mechanism component 816 of rotary unit800), while first gear component 704 operably engages a gear component(e.g., a gear component of a gear structure) of another rotary unit(e.g., a rotary unit, such as a rotary unit 800) and gear components ofgear structure 706 operably engage another gear component (e.g., a firstgear component) of yet another rotary unit (e.g., another rotary unit,such as another rotary unit 800). As also shown, a surface of rotationalcomponent 702 also includes multiple implements 716 (shown as razors orcutting edges) that are optionally used in hair cutting devices or otherapplications.

FIGS. 8A-C schematically show a rotary unit according to one embodimentof the invention. As shown, rotary unit 800 includes rotationalcomponent 802, which includes first gear component 804 on a first side.Rotary unit 800 also includes a gear structure 806 disposed and able torotate within a gear structure receiving area rotational component 802.Lip or wall 808 retains gear structure 806 in the gear structurereceiving area. Rotary unit 800 also includes alignment components thatare structured to align rotary units relative to one another, e.g., in agiven device or other application. In particular, the first side ofrotational component 802 includes circular groove 810, white the secondside of rotational component 802 includes circular ridge 812. Circulargroove 810 is configured to receive a circular ridge (e.g., circularridge 712) of another rotary unit (e.g., rotary unit 700), whichcircular ridge is configured to rotate within circular groove 810. Incontrast, circular ridge 812 is configured to fit and rotate within acircular groove (e.g., circular groove 710) of another rotary unit(e.g., rotary unit 700). In some embodiments, the first side ofrotational component 802 includes circular ridge 812, while the secondside of rotational component 802 includes circular groove 810.

Rotary unit 800 also include drive mechanism component receiving area814 that is configured to receive a drive mechanism component (e.g.,drive mechanism component 816 of a rotary unit 800). In the embodimentshown, drive mechanism component receiving area 814 includes a femalethreaded region that is configured to receive a male threaded region ofdrive mechanism component 816 of another rotary unit 800. As describedabove, another rotary unit (such as a rotary unit 700) is configured tofit between two rotary units 800 and rotate around a drive mechanismcomponent 816 of one of the rotary units 800. As also shown, a surfaceof rotational component 802 also includes multiple implements 818 (shownas razors or cutting edges) that are optionally used in hair cuttingdevices or other applications.

FIGS. 9A-L schematically depict an exemplary rotary unit or componentsthereof according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotaryunit 900 includes rotational component 902 that is configured to rotatearound rotational axis 904. Rotational component 902 includes firstsurface 906 and second surface 908. First surface 906 includes gearcomponent 910 (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.) that is configured tooperably engage one or more gear components of at least a secondrotational component (not shown) when rotational component 902 isdisposed proximal to the second rotational component such that when therotational component 902 rotates in a first direction, the secondrotational component rotates in a second direction. In addition, secondsurface 908 comprises gear component 912 (e.g., a ring gear component,etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components(via gear components 914) of a third rotational (not shown) componentwhen rotational component 902 is disposed proximal to the thirdrotational component such that when rotational component 902 rotates inthe first direction, the second rotational component rotates in thesecond direction.

Gear structure 915 includes support component 917 and gear components914 (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are total:ablycoupled to support component 917. Support component 917 of gearstructure 915 also includes friction reducing materials 919 (shown aselevated or pointed surface features) to reduce friction as rotationalcomponent 902 rotates relative to support component 917. As also shownin, for example, FIGS. 9J-L, surface 916 of the rotational component 902comprises implement 918 (shown as a plurality of bristles), whichsurface 916 is configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular torotational axis 904. In this embodiment, for example, surface 916 ofrotational component 902 is configured to rotate substantially parallelto rotational axis 904.

Rotary unit 900 also includes friction reducing materials 920 (shown asroller balls) disposed on first surface 906 of rotational component 902to reduce friction as rotational component 902 rotates relative toanother rotational component. In the embodiments in which frictionreducing materials are utilized, essentially any friction reducingmaterial is optionally adapted for use with the rotary units of theinvention. Other exemplary embodiments include, for example, coatings(e.g., TEFLON®, etc.), lubricants, surface features, and/or the like.Rotational mechanisms typically include one or more rotary units 900.Exemplary rotational mechanisms are described further herein.

As further shown in FIG. 9I, for example, in some embodiments duringrotary unit assembly retaining mechanism 922 is attached to anotherportion of rotational component 902, once gear structure 915 ispositioned in a gear structure receiving area, via attachment components924 (e.g., which clip into corresponding notches (not within view) inthe portion of the rotational component that includes retainingmechanism 922 in this representative embodiment).

In addition, rotary unit 900 also includes drive mechanism componentreceiving area 925 (shown as a hole disposed through rotationalcomponent 902) that is configured to receive a drive mechanismcomponent, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplarydrive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known inthe art.

FIGS. 10A-M schematically depict an exemplary rotary unit or componentsthereof according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotaryunit 1000 includes rotational component 1002 that is configured torotate around rotational axis 1004. Rotational component 1002 includesfirst surface 1006 and second surface 1008. First surface 1006 includesgear component 1010 (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.) that isconfigured to operably engage one or more gear components of at least asecond rotational component (not shown) when rotational component 1002is disposed proximal to the second rotational component such that whenthe rotational component 1002 rotates in a first direction, the secondrotational component rotates in a second direction. In addition, secondsurface 1008 comprises gear component 1012 (e.g., a ring gear component,etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components(via gear components 1014) of a third rotational (not shown) componentwhen rotational component 1002 is disposed proximal to the thirdrotational component such that when rotational component 1002 rotates inthe first direction, the third rotational component rotates in thesecond direction (e.g., in the same direction as the second rotationalcomponent).

Gear structure 1015 includes support component 1017 and gear components1014 (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatablycoupled to support component 1017. Support component 1017 of gearstructure 1015 also includes friction reducing materials 1019 (shown aselevated or pointed surface features) to reduce friction as rotationalcomponent 1002 rotates relative to support component 1017. As also shownin, for example, FIGS. 10K-M, surface 1016 of the rotational component1002 comprises implement 1018 (shown as a plurality of bristles), whichsurface 1016 is configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular torotational axis 1004. In this embodiment, for example, surface 1016 ofrotational component 1002 is configured to rotate substantially parallelto rotational axis 1004.

Rotary unit 1000 also includes friction reducing materials 11020 (shownas elevated surface features) disposed on first surface 1006 ofrotational component 1002 to reduce friction as rotational component1002 rotates relative to another rotational component. In theembodiments in which friction reducing materials are utilized,essentially any friction reducing material is optionally adapted for usewith the rotary units of the invention. Other exemplary embodimentsinclude, for example, coatings (e.g., TEFLON®, etc.), lubricants,surface features, and/or the like. In some embodiments of the rotaryunits of the invention, friction reducing materials are not utilized.Rotational mechanisms typically include one or more rotary units 1000.Exemplary rotational or rotary mechanisms are described further herein.

In addition, rotary unit 1000 also includes drive mechanism componentreceiving area 1024 (shown as a hole disposed through rotationalcomponent 1002) that is configured to receive a drive mechanismcomponent, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplarydrive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known inthe art.

To further illustrate, FIGS. 11A-G schematically show a rotary unit orcomponents thereof according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention. As shown, rotary unit 1100 includes rotational component 1102that is configured to rotate around rotational axis 1104. Rotationalcomponent 1102 includes first surface 1106 and second surface 1108.First surface 1106 includes gear component 1110 (e.g., a sun gearcomponent, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gearcomponents (via gear components 1114) of at least a second rotationalcomponent (not shown) when rotational component 1102 is disposedproximal to the second rotational component such that when therotational component 1102 rotates in a first direction, the secondrotational component rotates in a second direction. In addition, secondsurface 1108 comprises gear component 1112 (e.g., a ring gear component,etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear componentsof a third rotational (not shown) component when rotational component1102 is disposed proximal to the third rotational component such thatwhen rotational component 1102 rotates in the first direction, the thirdrotational component rotates in the second direction (e.g., in the samedirection as the second rotational component).

Gear structure 1115 includes support component 1117 and gear components1114 (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatablycoupled to support component 1117. Support component 1117 of gearstructure 1115 also includes friction reducing materials 1119 (shown aselevated or pointed surface features) to reduce friction as rotationalcomponent 1102 rotates relative to support component 1117. As also shownin, for example, FIGS. 11E-G, surface 1116 of the rotational component1102 comprises implement 1118 (shown as a plurality of bristles in thisexemplary embodiment), which surface 1116 is configured to rotatesubstantially non-perpendicular to rotational axis 1104. In thisembodiment, for example, surface 1116 of rotational component 1102 isconfigured to rotate substantially parallel to rotational axis 1104.Rotational mechanisms typically include one or more rotary units 1100.Exemplary rotational mechanisms are described further herein.

In addition, rotary unit 1100 also includes drive mechanism componentreceiving area 1124 (shown as a hole disposed through rotationalcomponent 1102) that is configured to receive a drive mechanismcomponent, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplarydrive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known inthe art.

FIGS. 12A-F schematically show a rotary unit or components thereofaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotaryunit 1200 includes rotational component 1202 that includes gearcomponent 1210 (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.) that is configured tooperably engage one or more gear components of at least a secondrotational component (not shown) when rotational component 1202 isdisposed proximal to the second rotational component such that when therotational component 1202 rotates in a first direction, the secondrotational component rotates in a second direction. In addition,rotational component 1202 comprises gear component 1212 (e.g., a ringgear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or moregear components (via gear components 1214) of a third rotational notshown) component when rotational component 1202 is disposed proximal tothe third rotational component such that when rotational component 1202rotates in the first direction, the third rotational component rotatesin the second direction. Rotational component 1202 is structured similarto rotational component 1002 described herein, but further includesrecessed area 1203, which is described below.

Gear structure 1215 includes support component 1217 and gear components1214 (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatablycoupled to support component 1217. Support component 1217 of gearstructure 1215 also includes friction reducing materials 1219 (shown aselevated or pointed surface features) to reduce friction as rotationalcomponent 1202 rotates relative to support component 1217. As alsoshown, gear structure 1215 also includes retaining features 1220 thatare structured to fit and move within recessed area 1203 when gearstructure 1215 is disposed in the gear structure receiving area ofrotational component 1202. Retaining features 1220 further align andretain gear structure 1215 relative to rotational component 1202. Insome embodiments, retaining features 1220 are not included. Although notshown, rotary unit 1200 also typically includes one or more implements.Rotational mechanisms typically include one or more rotary units 1200.Exemplary rotational mechanisms are described further herein.

In addition, rotary unit 1200 also includes drive mechanism componentreceiving area 1224 (shown as a hole disposed through rotationalcomponent 1202) that is configured to receive a drive mechanismcomponent, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplarydrive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known inthe art.

FIGS. 13A-E schematically show components of rotary unit according toone exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, the rotary unitincludes rotational component 1302 and gear component 1304 (e.g., aplanetary gear component or the like). Although not shown, rotationalcomponent 1302 typically includes one or more implements (e.g., gearcomponents, bristles, prongs, blades, etc.). Rotational component 1302includes gear component 1310 (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.) that isconfigured to operably engage or mesh with gear component 1304.Rotational mechanisms that include these components are describedfurther herein.

FIGS. 14A-D schematically show a rotary unit or components thereofaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotaryunit 1400 includes rotational component 1402 that includes gearcomponent 1410 (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.), gear component 1412(e.g., a ring gear component, etc.), and gear structure receiving area1413. Gear component 1410 substantially fixedly extends from firstsurface 1406 of rotational component 1402. Gear component 1.410 isconfigured to operably engage or mesh with one or more other gearcomponents of another rotary unit when gear component 1410 is disposedproximal to the other gear components. Gear component 1412 substantiallyfixedly extends from second surface 1408 of rotational component 1402.Gear component 1412 communicates with gear structure receiving area1413. Gear structure receiving area 1413 is configured to receive gearstructure 1415.

Gear structure 1415 includes support component 1417 and gear components1414 (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatablycoupled to support component 1417. Gear components 1414 are configuredto operably engage or mesh with one or more other gear components whengear components 1414 are disposed proximal to the other gear components.Rotational component 1402 is configured to rotate relative to supportcomponent 1417, which support component 1417 is substantially fixedlypositioned when rotational component 1402 rotates relative to supportcomponent 1417. Gear components 1414 are configured to rotate relativeto rotational component 1402. Gear structures that include supportcomponents 1417 are described further herein. Although not shown, rotaryunit 1400 also typically includes one or more implements. Rotationalmechanisms typically include one or more rotary units 1400. Exemplaryrotational mechanisms are described further herein.

FIGS. 15A-D schematically illustrate a rotary unit according to oneembodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit 1500 includesrotational component 1502 that includes first sun gear component 1504and second sun gear component 1506 on first and second surfaces,respectively, of rotational component 1502, which substantially opposeone another. First sun gear component 1504 is configured to operablyengage one or more gear components of at least a second rotationalcomponent (not shown) when rotational component 1502 is disposedproximal to the second rotational component such that when rotationalcomponent 1502 rotates in a first direction, the second rotationalcomponent rotates in a second direction. Second sun gear component 1506is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of at leasta third rotational component (not shown) when rotational component 1502is disposed proximal to the third rotational component such that whenrotational component 1502 rotates in the first direction, the thirdrotational component rotates in the second direction. Exemplary gearsthat are optionally adapted for use with the rotary units, rotationalmechanisms, and related applications of the invention are also describedin, e.g., Dudley, Handbook of Practical Gear Design (MechanicalEngineering Series), CRC Press, 1^(st) Ed. (1994) and Litvin andFuentes, Gear Geometry and Applied Theory, Cambridge University Press;2^(nd) Ed. (2004), which are both incorporated herein in their entiretyfor all purposes.

Rotary unit 1500 also includes hole 1508 disposed through rotationalcomponent 1502. Hole 1508 is configured to receive, e.g., a drivemechanism component (e.g., an axle, a shaft, a gear structure component,etc.) or a support component such that rotational component 1502 canrotate around the drive mechanism component, the support component, orthe like. Rotational component 1502 also includes friction reducingmaterials 1510 (shown as elevated or pointed surface features) to reducefriction as rotational component 1502 rotates relative to, e.g., otherrotational component. In addition, rotational component 1502 alsoinclude implements 1512 on a surface of rotational component 1502 thatis configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to a rotationalaxis of rotary unit 1500. Essentially any implement is optionallyadapted for use with rotary unit 1500, including the exemplaryimplements described herein. Rotary unit 1500 is typically included in arotational mechanism, a device or the like. Exemplary rotationalmechanisms that include rotary unit 1500 are described herein. Inaddition, representative devices that are optionally adapted to includerotary unit 1500 are also described herein.

FIGS. 16A-Q schematically illustrate a rotary unit or components thereofaccording to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit 1600includes rotational component 1602 that includes first ring gearcomponent 1604 and second ring gear component 1606 on first and secondsurfaces, respectively, of rotational component 1602, whichsubstantially oppose one another. First ring gear component 1604 isconfigured to operably engage one or more gear components of at least asecond rotational component (not shown) when rotational component 1602is disposed proximal to the second rotational component such that whenrotational component 1602 rotates in a first direction, the secondrotational component rotates in a second direction. Second ring gearcomponent 1606 is configured to operably engage one or more gearcomponents of at least a third rotational component (not shown) whenrotational component 1602 is disposed proximal to the third rotationalcomponent such that when rotational component 1602 rotates in the firstdirection, the third rotational component rotates in the seconddirection.

Rotary unit 1600 also includes hole 1608 disposed through rotationalcomponent 1602. Hole 1608 is configured to receive, e.g., a drivemechanism component (e.g., an axle, a shaft, a gear structure component,etc.) or a support component such that rotational component 1602 canrotate around the drive mechanism component, the support component, orthe like. Exemplary drive mechanism components and support componentsare described herein. Although not shown, rotational component 1602optionally also includes friction reducing materials (e.g., elevated orpointed surface features, surface coatings, roller balls, etc.) toreduce friction as rotational component 1602 rotates relative to, e.g.,other rotational component. In addition, rotational component 1602 alsoinclude implements 1510 on a surface of rotational component 1602 thatis configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to a rotationalaxis of rotary unit 1600. Essentially any implement is optionallyadapted for use with rotary unit 1600, including the exemplaryimplements described herein. Rotary unit 1600 is typically included in arotational mechanism, a device or the like. Exemplary rotationalmechanisms that include rotary unit 1600 are described herein. Inaddition, representative devices that are optionally adapted to includerotary unit 1600 are also described herein.

In some embodiments, rotary unit 1600 also includes gear structure 1612,which includes support component 1614 and first planetary gearcomponents 1616 and second planetary gear components 1618 rotatablycoupled to support component 1614. As shown, first planetary gearcomponents 1616 are configured to operably engage or mesh with firstring gear component 160.4, second planetary gear components 1618 areconfigured to operably engage or mesh with second ring gear component1606, and rotational component 1602 is configured to rotate relative tosupport component 1614, which is substantially fixedly positioned (e.g.,in an assembled rotational mechanism, device, etc.) when rotationalcomponent 1602 rotates relative to support component 1614. As alsoshown, for example, in FIGS. 16A and B, respectively, first ring gearcomponent 1604 at least partially defines first gear structure receivingarea 1605 and second ring gear component 1606 at least partially definessecond gear structure receiving area 1607. First gear structurereceiving area 1605 and second gear structure receiving area 1607 areconfigured to receive first portion 1622 and second portion 1624,respectively, of support component 1614 of gear structure 1612. Firstportion 1622 and second portion 1624 of support component 1614 of gearstructure 1612 are described, e.g., further below.

FIG. 16G schematically shows an exploded side view of gear structure1612 according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, threadedregion 1620 of first portion 1622 of support component 1614 inserts intoa threaded region receiving area (not within view in FIG. 16G) of secondportion 1624 of support component 1614 during assembly of gear structure1612. In addition, first planetary gear components 1616 are rotatablycoupled to second portion 1624 of support component 1614 via prongedretaining elements 1626 and second planetary gear components 1618 arerotatably coupled to first portion 1622 of support component 1614 viapronged retaining elements 1628 during assembly of gear structure 1612.As also shown, first portion 1622 and second portion 1624 of supportcomponent 1614 include friction reducing materials 1630 (shown aselevated or pointed surface features), e.g., to minimize friction whenrotational component 1602 rotates relative to support component 1614during operation of assembled rotary unit 1600. To further illustrate,FIG. 16M schematically shows an exploded view of rotary unit 1600 withfirst portion 1622 and second portion 1624 of support component 1614 ofgear structure 1612 prior to assembly with rotational component 1602.

To further illustrate, FIG. 16K schematically illustrates gear structure1612 prior to assembly with another gear structure 1612 from a side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, during assembly,threaded region 1632 of one support component 1614 is inserted intothreaded region receiving area 1634 of another support component 1614such that the assembled support components 1614 are substantiallyfixedly positioned relative to one another, e.g., when rotationalcomponents 1602 of rotary units 1600 rotate relative to supportcomponents 1614. Essentially any attachment technique is optionallyutilized to attach support components 1614 of gear structures 1612 toone another or first portion 1622 and second portion 1624 of supportcomponent 1614 to one another. Some exemplary techniques include, forexample, bonding, welding, adhering, or the like. In some embodiments,multiple support components 1614 are fabricated as single integral part(e.g., as a molded part or the like).

III. Exemplary Rotary Mechanisms

In certain embodiments, the invention provides rotary or rotationalmechanisms that include two or more rotational components or rotaryunits (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or morerotational components or rotary units). Rotary mechanisms also typicallyinclude at least one counter-rotational mechanism operably coupled toone or more of the rotational components. The counter-rotationalmechanism is generally configured to effect substantially simultaneouscounter-rotation of the rotational components relative to one anotherwhen movement of at least a portion of the counter-rotational mechanismis effected. Rotary mechanisms also typically include drive mechanismsoperably coupled to the counter-rotational mechanism and/or rotationalcomponents. Drive mechanisms are typically configured to effect movementof at least the portion of the counter-rotational mechanisms such thatthe rotational components substantially simultaneously counter-rotaterelative to one another. In some embodiments, for example, multiplerotary units are included as components (e.g., rotational components andcounter-rotational mechanisms, etc.) of rotary mechanisms.

In some embodiments, rotary units are operably coupled to one anothervia one or more shafts. To illustrate one embodiment, FIG. 17Aschematically depicts rotary units 100 and drive mechanism component1702 (shown as a shaft) prior to assembly. As shown, gear component 1704is fixedly coupled to shaft 1702 and is configured to operably engagethird gear components 114 (not within view in FIGS. 17A and B) of arotary unit 100 in assembled rotary mechanism 1700. During assembly,shaft 1702 is inserted through drive mechanism component receiving areas122 (shown as holes, e.g., in FIG. 1A) of rotary units 100 to operablycouple rotary units 100 to one another. FIG. 17B schematicallyillustrates rotary units 100 and shaft 1702 following assembly. Suitableshafts include a variety of cross-sectional shapes (e.g., circular,oval, triangular, square, rectangular, polygonal, etc.). In someembodiments, a given shaft includes multiple cross-sectional shapes. Insome of these embodiments, individual rotary units include drivemechanism component receiving areas (e.g., holes, apertures, etc.) thatcorrespond to those different cross-sectional shapes. In someembodiments, for example, one member of a pair of neighboring rotaryunits includes a square hole that fits on a square cross-section of ashaft, while the other member of the pair includes a circular hole thatfits on a circular cross-section of the shaft. In these embodiments, therotary unit with the square hole typically rotates in a substantiallyfixed position relative to the shaft, whereas the rotary unit with thecircular hole typically rotates substantially free or independentrelative to the shaft.

To further illustrate, FIGS. 18A-C schematically show rotary mechanism1800 assembled from pairs of rotary units 700 and 800, which are bothdescribed further herein. More specifically, FIG. 18A schematicallyshows an individual pair of rotary units 700 and 800 prior to assemblyof rotary mechanism 1800 from side views. FIG. 18B schematically showspartially assembled rotary mechanism 1800 with the rotary units of FIG.18A from side views. FIG. 18C schematically illustrates rotary mechanism1800 that includes multiple pairs of rotary units 700 and 800.

In some embodiments, rotary units are operably coupled to one anothervia one or more shafts. To illustrate one embodiment, FIG. 19Aschematically depicts rotary units 900, drive mechanism component 1902(shown as a shaft), and cap component 1903 prior to assembly. As shown,gear component 1904 is fixedly coupled to shaft 1902 and is configuredto operably engage or mesh with gear components 914 of a rotary unit 900in assembled rotary mechanism 1900. During assembly, shaft 1902 isinserted through drive mechanism component receiving areas 925 (shown asa hole, e.g., in FIG. 9A) of rotary units 900 to operably couple rotaryunits 900 to one another. Shaft 1902 operably connects with capcomponent 1903 in assembled rotary mechanism 1900, e.g., to hold rotaryunits 900 in position relative to one another. FIG. 19B schematicallyillustrates rotary units 900, shaft 1902, and cap component 1903following assembly of rotary mechanism 1900. The directional arrows inFIG. 19B schematically depict that neighboring pairs of rotary units 900in rotary mechanism 1900 are configured to counter rotate relative toone another. FIG. 19C schematically shows a portion of a rotarymechanism that includes rotary units 900 with implements 918.

FIGS. 20A-O schematically show a rotary mechanism or components thereofaccording to exemplary embodiments of the invention. As shown, rotarymechanism 2000 includes four rotary units that each include rotationalcomponent 1302 and gear component 1304. Rotary mechanism 2000 alsoincludes a drive mechanism that includes shafts 2002 and motors 2004.Motors 2004 are configured to effect rotation of shafts 2002. As shown,the drive mechanism is configured to effect rotation of gear components1304 such that rotational components 1302 of neighboring or adjacentpairs of rotary units rotate in opposite directions. See, e.g., thedirectional arrows in FIG. 20H, which schematically depict thecounter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotational components 1302. Asshown, one shaft 2002 is operably connected to a first set of twonon-neighboring gear components 1304, while the other shaft 2002 isoperably connected to a second set of two non-neighboring gearcomponents 1304 that is different from the first set of twonon-neighboring of gear components 1304. The two shafts 2002 areconfigured to rotate in opposite directions. See, e.g., the directionalarrows associated with shafts 2002 in FIGS. 20H and I. As also shown,surfaces 1305 of rotational, components 1302 are configured to rotatesubstantially non-perpendicular to a rotational axis of rotationalcomponents 1302.

Any suitable drive mechanism is optionally utilized with these rotarymechanisms. For example, FIG. 20L schematically depicts a portion of adrive mechanism from a side view. As shown, the drive mechanism includesmotor 2004 (depicted as a dual shaft motor) that is configured to effectrotation of shafts 2002 in opposite directions via meshing pairs of gearcomponents 2006. To further illustrate, FIGS. 20M-O schematically depictportions of a drive mechanism. As shown, motor 2004 is configured toeffect rotation of shafts 2002 in opposite directions via a gear trainthat includes gear components 2008.

In addition, rotary mechanism 2000 also includes positioning component2010 (shown as a frame structure) that is configured to position rotaryunits relative to one another. As shown, shafts 2002 are positionedrelative to positioning component 2010 via mount brackets 2012, whichpermit rotation of shafts 2002. As also shown, positioning component2010 also includes a plurality of friction reducing materials 2014(shown as roller balls) disposed on a surface of positioning component2010 to reduce friction as rotational components 1302 rotates relativeto positioning component 2010. In the embodiments in which frictionreducing materials are utilized essentially any friction reducingmaterial is optionally adapted for use with the rotary mechanisms of theinvention. Other exemplary embodiments include, for example, coatings(e.g., TEFLON®, etc.), lubricants, surface features, and/or the like.FIG. 20G schematically depicts positioning component 2016 according toanother exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 21A-E schematically show rotary mechanisms or components thereofaccording to exemplary embodiments of the invention. As shown, rotarymechanism 2100 includes drive mechanism component 2102, which includesring gear component 2104 and a gear structure. The gear structureincludes support component 2106 and planetary gear component 2108rotatably coupled to support component 2106. Planetary gear component2108 is configured to operably engage ring gear component 2104 of drivemechanism component 2102 and gear component 1410 of rotary unit 1400.Drive mechanism component 2102 also includes motor 2110, which isconfigured to effect rotation of ring gear component 2104 via shaft2112. Shaft 2112 is fixedly connected to ring gear component 2104. Whenring gear component 2104 rotates, it effects the counter-rotation ofneighboring pairs of rotary units 1400 relative to one another. See,e.g., the directional arrows associated with FIGS. 21B and C, whichschematically depict the counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotaryunits 1400. As also shown, in assembled rotary mechanism 2100, supportcomponent 2106 is operably connected to support components 1417 ofrotary units 1400 such that support component 2106 and supportcomponents 1417 are substantially fixedly positioned relative to oneanother when ring gear component 2104 effects the counter-rotation ofneighboring pairs of rotary units 1400 relative to one another. Gearstructures that include support components 1417 are described furtherherein. To further illustrate, FIG. 21D schematically depicts rotarymechanism 2114, which includes rotary units 1400 with implements 1418.In addition, FIG. 21E schematically illustrates rotary mechanism 2116,which includes rotary units 1400 with implements 1418 and dual shaftmotor 2118.

The gear structures of the invention include various embodiments. Toillustrate, FIG. 22A schematically illustrates gear structure 1415 priorto assembly with another gear structure 1415 from a side view accordingto one embodiment of the invention. As shown, gear structure 1415includes support component 1417 and gear components 1414 (e.g.,planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatably coupled tosupport component 1417. Gear components 1414 are configured to operablyengage or mesh with one or more other gear components when gearcomponents 1414 are disposed proximal to the other gear components.During assembly, threaded region 1429 of one support component 1417 isinserted into threaded region receiving area 1427 of another supportcomponent 1417 such that the assembled support components 1417 aresubstantially fixedly positioned relative to one another when rotationalcomponents 1402 of rotary units 1400 rotate relative to supportcomponents 1417 and to one another. Essentially any attachment techniqueis optionally utilized to attach support components 1417 to one another.Some exemplary techniques include, for example, bonding, welding,adhering, or the like. In some embodiments, multiple support components1417 are fabricated as single integral part (e.g., as a molded part orthe like). FIG. 22B schematically shows an assembly of four gearstructure 1415 from a side view. FIG. 22C schematically depicts the gearstructure assembly of FIG. 22B from a rear side view, while FIG. 22Dschematically depicts the gear structure assembly of FIG. 22B from afront side view.

To further illustrate, FIG. 22E schematically shows rotary mechanism2200 that includes the gear structure assembly of FIG. 22B from asectional view according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown,rotary mechanism 2200 includes four rotary units 1400. Counter-rotationof neighboring rotational components 1402 in rotary mechanism 2200 iseffected by drive mechanism component 2202, which includes shaftcomponent 2204 and gear component 2206. FIG. 22F schematically showsrotary mechanism 2200 from aside view. Rotational components 1402 ofrotary units 1400 of rotation mechanism 2200 are configured to rotaterelative to support components 1417, which support components 1417 aresubstantially fixedly positioned when rotational components 1402 rotatesrelative to support components 1417. Gear components 1414 are configuredto rotate relative to rotational components 1402.

FIGS. 23A-T schematically depict a rotational mechanism or componentsthereof according to one embodiment of the invention. To illustrate,FIGS. 23A and C, for example, schematically depicts a portion ofrotational mechanism 2300 from an exploded side and exploded sidesectional views, respectively. During assembly of rotational mechanism2300, support component 1614 of one rotary unit 1600 is inserted throughhole 1508 of rotary unit 1500 and threaded region 1632 of that supportcomponent 1614 is received and retained in threaded region receivingarea of another rotary unit 1600.

FIGS. 23E-P schematically show a portion of a drive mechanism componentthat is utilized to effect counter-rotation of neighboring pairs ofrotary unit 1500 and rotary unit 1600 of rotational mechanism 2300. Asshown, the portion of the drive mechanism component includes rotationalcomponent 2302, which includes ring gear component 2304, hole 2306, andimplements 2308. The portion of the drive mechanism component alsoincludes gear structure 2310, which includes support structure 2312 andplanetary gear components 2314 rotatably coupled to support structure2312. Support structure 2312 also includes friction reducing materials2316 (shown as elevated or pointed surface features) to, e.g., reducefriction between support structure 2312 and rotational component 2302when rotational component 2302 rotates relative to support structure2312. Support structure 2312 also includes threaded region 2318, whichis received by a corresponding threaded region receiving area offastener 2320 (e.g., a nut or the like) through hole 2306 to hold gearstructure 2310 in position relative rotational component 2302, yetpermit rotational component 2302 to rotate relative to support structure2312 and planetary gear components 2314. In addition, support structure2312 also includes threaded region receiving area 2322, which isconfigured to receiving thread region 1632 of a rotary unit 1600, e.g.,in assembled rotational mechanism 2300.

As also shown, a shaft 2324 is also fixedly connected to rotationalcomponent 2302. Although not shown, a motor or the like is typicallyoperably connected to shaft 2324, which effects the rotation of shaft2324 and the counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotary unit 1500and rotary unit 1600 of rotational mechanism 2300 (e.g., asschematically depicted by the directional arrows shown, e.g., in FIG.23S) during operation. In addition, a rotary unit 1600 also operablyconnects to support component 2326 via threaded region receiving area1634 of support structure 1614, e.g., such that support structures 1614of rotary units 1600 and support structure 2312 of gear structure 2310are substantially fixedly positioned when rotary units 1500, rotaryunits 1600, and rotational component 2302 rotate relative to one anotherin rotational mechanism 2300. Essentially any support component isoptionally used. In some embodiments, support components are included inor as part of devices, apparatus, or other applications of therotational mechanisms of the invention. Exemplary support components andapplications are described herein.

IV. Exemplary Applications

FIGS. 24A and B schematically illustrate a rotor tiller or rototillerthat includes a rotary mechanism according to one embodiment of theinvention. As shown, rotor tiller 2400 includes rotary mechanism 2462that is operably connected to motor 2404 via shaft 2474. As also shown,rotor tiller 2400 also includes wheels 2402 and handle 2406 coupled to asupport structure.

To further illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention, FIG. 25Aschematically shows vehicle 2500 from a side elevational view. As shown,vehicle 2500 includes two rotary mechanisms 2502 and grading blade 2503,which can each be independently raised and lowered. Rotary mechanismscan include various embodiments, including various types of implements(e.g., as described herein or the like). As also shown, vehicle 2500also includes wheels 2504, driver's compartment 2506, and enginecompartment 2508. Vehicle 2500 can be adapted for a wide variety of usesin, e.g., agricultural, construction, military, or other applications.In some embodiments, for example, vehicle 2500 is used to till, grade,and/or otherwise move soil. As another exemplary illustration, FIG. 25Bschematically shows vehicle 2501 from a side elevational view. As shown,vehicle 2501 includes rotary mechanism 2510, which can be raised andlowered. As also shown, vehicle 2501 also includes wheels 2504, driver'scompartment 2506, and engine compartment 2508. Vehicle 2501 can beadapted for a wide variety of uses. In some embodiments, for example,vehicle 2501 is used to till, grade, and/or otherwise move soil.

In other representative embodiments, the invention provides hair cuttingdevices, e.g., for cutting facial hair, leg hair, or hair on other bodyparts. To illustrate, FIGS. 26A-G illustrate various aspects of a haircutting device according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown,hair cutting device 2600 includes housing 2602, which comprises surfacesthat define cavity 2604 disposed at least partially within housing 2602.Housing 2602 also includes opening 2606 that communicates with cavity2604. Rotary mechanism 2608 (e.g., similar to the rotary mechanismdescribed with respect to FIG. 18C) is at least partially disposedwithin cavity 2604. Rotary mechanism 2608 includes multiple rotationalcomponents 2610 and 2612 (such as the rotational components describedwith respect to FIGS. 7A-C and 8A-C, etc.) that are configured tosubstantially coaxially rotate coaxially counter-rotate) relative to oneanother. Rotational components 2610 and 2612 also include cuttingimplements 2614 (e.g., razor blades or other sharp edges) that areconfigured to cut hair via opening 2606 when the multiple rotationalcomponents 2610 and 2612 substantially coaxially rotate relative to oneanother and cutting implements 2614 (see, e.g., implements 716 and 818or the like) contact the hair (see, e.g., FIG. 26F). Rotary mechanism2608 also includes at least one counter-rotational mechanism, asdescribed herein (see, e.g., the multiple assembled rotationalmechanisms schematically depicted in, e.g., FIGS. 18A-C or the like),operably coupled to the multiple rotational components 2610 and 2612.The counter-rotational mechanism is configured to effect substantiallysimultaneous counter-rotation of the multiple rotational components 2610and 2612 relative to one another when movement of at least a portion ofthe counter-rotational mechanism is effected. That is, rotationalcomponent 2610 is configured to rotate in a direction that is oppositethe direction of rotation of rotational component 2612. In someembodiments, the rotational components are configured to coaxiallycounter-oscillate relative to one another about an axis of rotation ofthe rotary mechanism. In some of these embodiments, cutting implementsinclude dual-side cutting edges, e.g., to cutting hair in bothdirections of the oscillation.

As also shown, hair cutting device 2600 also includes a drive mechanismoperably coupled to the counter-rotational mechanism and rotationalcomponents. In the embodiment shown, for example, in FIGS. 26A and 26C,the drive mechanism includes motor 2616 (e.g., a stepper motor, a servomotor, etc.), which is configured to effect movement of thecounter-rotational mechanism via shaft 2618 such that the multiplerotational components 2610 and 2612 substantially simultaneouslycounter-rotate relative to one another. As also shown, switch 2617on/off switch, a variable speed control switch, and/or the like) isoperably connected to motor 2616. Although not shown, hair cuttingdevice 2608 also typically includes a power source (e.g., a power cordthat plugs into a wall socket, a battery (rechargeable or not), aphotovoltaic cell, etc.) operably connected to motor 2616.

Hair cutting device 2600 also includes removable structure 2620 (e.g., ashaving foil structure or the like) disposed in opening 2606. Removablestructure 2620 comprises holes 2622 via which hair is cut when themultiple rotational components 2610 and 2612 substantially coaxiallycounter-rotate relative to one another and cutting implements 2614contact the hair. Hair cutting devices also typically include supportstructures that are structured to support at least a portion of therotational components, the counter-rotational mechanism, and/or thedrive mechanism within the device housings. As shown in FIG. 26F, forexample, hair cutting device 2600 is dimensioned to be hand-held (i.e.,person 2621 is holding hair cutting device 2600 in his hand). As shown,e.g., FIG. 26G housing 2602 of hair cutting device 2600 comprises atleast one substantially circular cross-section.

FIGS. 27A-D schematically illustrate an exemplary tooth brushing deviceor components thereof according to one embodiment of the invention. Asshown, tooth brushing device 2700 includes rotary mechanism 2702, whichincludes a plurality of rotary units 600, as described above. Toothbrushing device 2700 also includes toothbrush head component 2704 andhandle component 2706. Toothbrush head component 2704 includes rotarymechanism housing 2708, which partially exposes a portion of thebristles of rotary mechanism 2702 through an opening in rotary mechanismhousing 2708 during operation. Toothbrush head gear components 2710 anddrive shaft 2712 also extend from a portion of rotary mechanism housing2708. Drive shaft 2712 is received through drive mechanism receivingareas of rotational components 602 of rotary units 600 of rotarymechanism 2702. Toothbrush head gear components 2710 operably engagegear components 604 and 624 of a rotary unit 600 to effect counterrotation of neighboring rotational components 602 and implements 622 ofrotary mechanism 2702. Rotary mechanism cap 2714 attaches to drive shaft2712 to retain rotary mechanism positioned relative to toothbrush headgear components 2710. Handle component 2706 houses a motor (not withinview) the operably connects to toothbrush head gear components 2710 anddrive shaft 2712. A power source, such as a rechargeable battery or thelike is also housed in handle component 2706 is some embodiments. Incertain embodiments, the motor is optionally connected to other types ofpower sources, such as photovoltaic cells attached to handle component2706, external power sources, or the like. As also shown, handlecomponent 2706 also include switch 2716, which is used, e.g., to turntooth brushing device 2700 on and off, regulate speeds or modes ofrotary unit rotation, or the like.

FIGS. 28A and B schematically show an exemplary rotary mechanism ortoothbrush head component that is optionally used, e.g., with handlecomponent 2706 of tooth brushing device 2700. As shown, rotary mechanism2800 includes a plurality of rotary units 600 in which implements 2802(raised elastomeric regions, e.g., for tooth polishing) have beensubstituted for implements 622 on several individual rotary units. FIG.28B schematically shows toothbrush head component 2804, which includesrotary mechanism 2800.

FIG. 29 schematically illustrates an exemplary cleaning device from aside view according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown,cleaning device 2900 includes a rotary mechanism that includes rotaryunits similar to rotary units 800, which are described further herein.Exemplary uses of cleaning device 3900 include cleaning outdoor cookinggrills, dishes, and toilets, among many possible applications.

To further illustrate representative embodiments, rotary units androtary mechanisms are optionally used or adapted for use in varioustypes of engines and other propulsion devices or systems. For example,FIGS. 30A-F schematically illustrate a propulsion device or componentsthereof according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown,propulsion device 3000 includes two rotary mechanisms 3002 and propellercomponent 3004. Rotary mechanisms 3002 include a plurality of rotaryunits 300, as described herein. Rotary units 300 are operably coupled toone another via shaft 3006, which includes gear component 3008. Shaft3006 operably connects to motor 3010 and rotary mechanism cap 3012. Gearcomponent 3008 operably engages third gear components 312 of gearstructure 310 of a rotary unit 300 such that when motor 3010 effects therotation of gear component 3008, gear component 3008 effects the counterrotation of neighboring pairs of rotary units 300. Gear components 324of rotary units 300 operably engage corresponding gear components ofpropeller units 3014 (e.g., rotational units or the like) to effect thecounter rotation of neighboring pairs of propeller units 3014 ofpropeller component 3004, and thereby propulsion. Rotary mechanism cap3012 aligns and maintains the position of rotary units 300 relative toone another. Although two rotary mechanisms 3002 are depicted in thispropulsion device embodiment, fewer or more that two rotary mechanismsare optionally used.

FIGS. 32A-D schematically illustrate a propulsion device or componentsthereof according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown,propulsion device 3200 includes two rotary mechanisms 3202 and propellercomponent 3004. Rotary mechanisms 3202 include a plurality of rotationalcomponents 3204. Rotational components 3204 are fixedly coupled to oneanother via shaft 3206. Shaft 3206 operably connects to motor 3010 androtary mechanism cap 3012. As shown, one shaft 3206 is fixedly coupledto a first set of four non-neighboring gear components 3204, while theother shaft 3206 is fixedly coupled to a second set of fournon-neighboring gear components 3204 that is different from the firstset of four non-neighboring of gear components 3204. The two shafts 3206are configured to rotate in opposite directions. See, e.g., thedirectional arrows associated with the two rotary mechanisms 3202 inFIG. 32B. As shown, in an assembled propulsion device 3200, gearcomponents 3204 of the first and second sets of four non-neighboring ofgear components 3204 mesh with corresponding gear components ofdifferent propeller units 3014 (e.g., rotational units or the like) ofpropeller component 3004 such that when the first and second sets offour non-neighboring of gear components 3204 rotate in oppositedirections to one another, neighboring pairs of propeller units 3014 ofpropeller component 3004 counter-rotate relative to one another, andthereby effect propulsion.

Propeller component 3004 of propulsion device 3000 and 3200 includes aplurality of propeller units 3014 (e.g., rotational units or the like),which in this embodiment each include a plurality of propellers 3016.Many different types of propellers are optionally used or adapted foruse in the engines or propulsion devices of the invention. In someembodiments, for example, individual propeller components 3004 may havepropellers 3016 that differ in size from the propellers of otherpropeller components in a given (propulsion device 3000 or propulsiondevice 3200. Propeller units 3014 are operably coupled together inpropeller component 3004 via propeller component shaft 3018 andpropeller component cap 3020. As also shown, certain propeller units3014 include rotational alignment components 3022, which are positionedand rotate in corresponding rotational positioning components 3107 ofpropulsion component housing 3100 (e.g., a positioning component or thelike), e.g., to prevent propeller units 3014 from contacting propulsioncomponent housing 3100 during operation. See, e.g., FIGS. 31D and E.

The engine and propulsion devices have many different uses. For example,they are optionally used or adapted for use with watercraft (e.g.,boats, submarines, surfboards, personal watercraft, diving or scubapropulsion aides, and the like) or aircraft. To illustrate, FIGS. 33Aand B schematically depict boat 3300, which includes several housedpropulsion devices 3302. To further illustrate, FIGS. 34A and Bschematically depict aircraft 3400, which includes housed propulsiondevices 3402.

FIG. 35A schematically shows cleaning device 3500 that includes a rotarymechanism from a sectional view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 35B schematically shows cleaning device 3500 from a sideview. As shown, the rotary mechanism of cleaning device 3500 includesrotary units 900, which each include implements 918. Rotary units 900are aligned relative to one another and rotate around shaft 3502. Therotary mechanism is positioned relative to housing 3504 via mountingcomponents 3506. As also shown, cleaning device 3500 also includes motor3508, which effects the counter-rotation of rotary units 900 in therotary mechanism via drive shaft 3510 and meshed gear components 3512and 3514. Cleaning device 3500 also includes power source 3516 (e.g., abattery or the like), which is operably connected to motor 3508 andswitch 3518 in a handle portion of housing 3504. Cleaning device 3500 isoptionally adapted for a variety of uses including, for example,cleaning dishes, cleaning countertops, cleaning floors, cleaningbarbeque grills, cleaning ovens, cleaning toilets, buffing automobilesor other vehicles, and the like.

FIGS. 36A-G schematically depict a cleaning device or componentsthereof. As shown, cleaning device 3600 includes rotary mechanism 3602.Rotary mechanism 3602 includes rotary units 900, which each includeimplements 918. Rotary units 900 are aligned relative to one another androtate around shafts 3604. Rotary mechanism 3602 is positioned relativeto housing 3606 of head component 3607 via, mounting components 3608. Asalso shown, cleaning device 3600 also includes motor 3610, which effectsthe counter-rotation of rotary units 900 in rotary mechanism 3602 viadrive shaft 3612 and meshed gear components 3614 and 3616. Although notwithin view, cleaning device 3600 also includes a power source (e.g., abattery or the like) or is connectable with a power source e.g., via apower cord or the like), which operably connects to motor 3610 andswitch 3618. As shown, switch 3618 is disposed on handle component 3620,which operably connects to head component 3607.

FIG. 37 schematically shows rotary mechanism 3700 from atop side viewaccording to one embodiment of the invention. Rotary mechanism 3700 isoptionally adapted for use in the cleaning devices and otherapplications of the invention. Rotary mechanism 3700 includes rotaryunits 900, which each include implements 918. Rotary units 900 arealigned relative to one another and rotate around shafts 3702. As alsoshown, rotary mechanism 3700 also includes motor 3704, which effects thecounter-rotation of rotary units 900 in rotary mechanism 3700 via driveshaft 3706 and meshed gear components 3708.

FIG. 38 schematically shows cleaning device 3800 that includes rotarymechanism 3602 from a side view according to one embodiment of theinvention. As shown, cleaning device 3800 includes head component 3607(as described above), which is operably connected to handle component3802. As also shown, handle component 3802 includes switch 3804, whichis operably connected to motor 3610 (not within view). Switch 3804 istypically used to turn cleaning device 3800 on and off, varying a rateor mode of rotary unit rotation, and the like.

FIG. 39 schematically shows cleaning device 3900 that includes rotarymechanism 5502 from a side view according to one embodiment of theinvention. As shown, cleaning device 3900 includes head component 3607(as described above), which is operably connected to handle component3902. As also shown, handle component 3902 includes switch 3904, whichis operably connected to motor 3610 (not within view). Cleaning device3900 also includes suction component 3906, which communicates with aninternal cavity of head component 3607 that includes rotary mechanism3602 and with waste container 3908. Suction component 3906 includes asuction source (e.g., a vacuum source) and a conduit. The suction sourceis configured to generate suction force sufficient to convey waste fromhead component 3607 through the conduit to waste container 3908. Switch3904 is also operably connected to suction component 3906. Switch 3904is typically used to turn cleaning device 3900 on and off (rotary unitrotation and/or suction), varying a rate or mode of rotary unit rotationand/or suction component suction, and the like.

FIG. 40A schematically shows cleaning device 4000 that includes rotarymechanism 3602 and removable fluid containers 4002 (e.g., a fluid sourceor the like) and 4004 (e.g., a fluid waste container or the like) priorto assembly from aside view according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 40B schematically shows cleaning device 4000 with fluidcontainers 4002 and 4004 positioned relative to handle 4006 on supportcomponents 4003 and 4005, respectively, from a side view. As shown,cleaning device 4000 includes head component 3607 (as described above),which is operably connected to handle component 4006. As also shown,handle component 4006 includes switch 4008, which is operably connectedto motor 3610 (not within view).

In some embodiments, cleaning devices or implements include fluidhandling mechanisms that can be used, for example, to distribute fluid(e.g., a cleaning fluid, etc.) to a surface to cleaned or the like. Toillustrate one exemplary embodiment, cleaning device 4000 includes afluid handling mechanism that comprises a fluid source (container 4002)and fluid outlet (nozzle 4010) (shown disposed proximal to a surface ofhead component 3607). The fluid handling mechanism is configured toconvey fluid from container 4002 to nozzle 4010, which communicate viafluid conduit 4012. The fluid handling mechanism of cleaning device 4000also includes pumping mechanism 4014 (e.g., a rotary lobe pump, a rotarygear pump, a screw pump, a gear pump, a peristaltic pump, or the like)that is configured to pump the fluid from container 4002 to nozzle 4010.As also shown, the fluid handling mechanism also includes vaporizationcomponent 4016 (e.g., a steam vaporizer or the like) that is configuredto vaporize the fluid at least proximal to nozzle 4010. In theembodiment shown, container 4002 is removable from cleaning device 4000such that container 4002 can be, e.g., refilled with a cleaning fluid,replaced with a new container when container 4002 is fabricated as aconsumable component of cleaning device 4000, etc. In some embodiments,containers are fabricated integral or otherwise fixedly attached tocleaning devices. Switch 4008 is also configured to effect operation ofpumping mechanism 4014 and vaporization component 4016.

Cleaning device 4000 also includes suction component 4018 (e.g., vacuumsource or component, pumping mechanism, and/or the like) that comprisesinlet 4020 and outlet 4022. As shown, suction component 4018 is disposedproximal to head component 3607. Outlet 4022 communicates with container4004 via conduit 4024. Switch 4008 is also configured to effectoperation of suction component 4018.

During operation, cleaning fluid is conveyed from container 4002,vaporized, and sprayed from nozzle 4010 to wet a surface to be cleaned.Rotary mechanism 3602 of head component 3607 scrubs the wetted surfaceand suction component 4018 conveys waste fluid from the wetted surfacethrough inlet 4020 to container 4004. Cleaning devices or implements, orcomponents thereof, that optionally are adapted for use with thecleaning devices of the invention are also described in, e.g., U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/317,746, entitled “CLEANINGIMPLEMENTS, CLEANING MATERIAL COMPONENTS, AND RELATED METHODS”, filed onMar. 26, 2010, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

To further illustrate, FIGS. 41A-Q schematically show cleaning devices,cleaning material components, or components thereof from various viewsaccording to exemplary embodiments of the invention. As shown, cleaningdevice 4100 includes head component 4102 which includes cleaningmaterial support component 4104 and cleaning surface component 4106.Cleaning material support component 4104 includes cleaning materialsupport component surfaces 4108 that at least partially define cleaningmaterial receiving areas 4110 (shown as cleaning implement cartridgereceiving areas). As also shown, cleaning material support components4104 include openings 4112 that are structured such that cleaningmaterial receiving areas 4110 communicate with cleaning surfacecomponent 4106. As shown, cleaning material receiving areas 4110 areconfigured to receive cleaning material component 4114 (shown as acleaning implement cartridge that includes a cleaning material roll)such that at least a portion of cleaning material component 4114 ismovable to and/or from cleaning material receiving area 4110 to extendover at least a portion of cleaning surface component 4106. In addition,cleaning device 4100 also includes retaining component 4120 (shown as adoor structure) that operably engages cleaning material supportcomponent 4104 via slide component 4122 in this exemplary embodiment. Asshown, head component 4102 also includes rotary mechanism 2116.

Cleaning material component 4114 includes cleaning material supportstructures 4130 and cleaning material 4126 (shown as a rolled sheet ofcleaning material). Cleaning material support structures 4130 (shown assubstantially cylindrically-shaped housings) form cavities that are eachstructured to house and support cleaning material 4126 such thatcleaning material 4126 is movable to and/or from cleaning materialsupport structures 4130 via orifices 4132. Orifices 4132 are configuredto communicate with openings 4112. Cleaning material support structuresand corresponding cleaning material receiving areas are optionallyformed to include various cross-sectional shapes, including, e.g.,circles, ovals, squares, rectangles, regular n-sided polygons, irregularn-sided polygons, etc. As shown, cleaning material support structure4130 is configured to be received in cleaning material receiving area4110 of cleaning device 4100 and cleaning material 4126 is configured toextend over cleaning surface component 4106 of cleaning device 4100 viaorifices 4132 and openings 4112.

In some embodiments, cleaning material support structures and/orcleaning materials of cleaning material components include one or morealignment components that are configured to align cleaning materialsrelative to cleaning material support structures. To illustrate,cleaning material support structures 4130 of cleaning material component4114 includes rod 4134 that extends within cleaning material supportstructure 4130. As shown, the alignment component (rod 4134) of cleaningmaterial support structure 4130 inserts into a corresponding centralreceiving area of the cleaning material roll (cleaning material 4126) toalign cleaning material 4126 relative to cleaning material supportstructures 4130.

In certain embodiments, cleaning devices and/or cleaning materialcomponents operably connect, or are operably connectable, to conveyancemechanisms or components thereof to effect conveyance of cleaningmaterials, e.g., selected incremental distances. In cleaning device4100, for example, rod 4134 extends through cleaning material supportstructure 4130 and operably connects to conveyance mechanism component4140 that is configured to operably engage gear components 4139. Inparticular, projections 4137 of conveyance mechanism component 4140 areconfigured to be received by projection receiving areas 4135 of gearcomponents 4139. Gear components 4139 are configured to operably engagegear component 4141 of head component 4102 when cleaning materialcomponent 4114 is disposed in cleaning material receiving areas 4110. Asshown, gear component 4141 is operably connected to motor 4143 (e.g., astepper motor, a servo motor, etc.) via shaft 4145. Power source 4147(shown as a battery, e.g., a disposable battery, a rechargeable battery,etc.) operably connects to motor 4143 to provide power to motor 4143.Essentially any power source is optionally adapted for use with thecleaning devices of the invention. In some embodiments, for example,motors are operably connected to power cords that plug into poweroutlets. In other exemplary embodiments, photovoltaic cells are mountedcleaning devices to provide power to motors. Motor 4143 effects rotationof cleaning material roll (cleaning material 4126) (via gear components4139 and 4141) selected distances such that cleaning material 4126 ispositioned at selected positions relative to cleaning surface component4106. Although not within view, motor 2118 is also operably connected topower source 4147. Motor 2118 effects rotation of rotary mechanism 2116.

Typically, cleaning material support components of cleaning devicesand/or cleaning material components include one or more alignmentfeatures that are structured to align those components relative to oneanother when the cleaning material components are disposed in thecleaning material receiving areas of the cleaning devices. In oneexemplary embodiment, for example, cleaning material support structure4130 and cleaning material support component 4104 include alignmentfeatures 4142 and 4144, respectively (schematically shown ascorresponding tongue and groove-type components), that are structured toalign cleaning material support structure 4130 relative to cleaningmaterial support component 4104 cleaning device 4100.

The cleaning devices of the invention typically include one or morehandle components. As shown in FIGS. 41N-P, for example, cleaning device4100 includes handle 4146 operably connected to head component 4102.Handle 4146 is pivotally connected to head component 4102 via pivotmechanism 4148 (shown as a ball and socket mechanism). As also shown,handle 4146 includes switch 4150 which is operably connected to motor4143. Switch 4150 is used to effect movement of cleaning material 4126via the conveyance mechanism described above.

In some embodiments, cleaning devices include fluid handling mechanismsthat can be used, for example, to distribute fluid (e.g., a cleaningfluid, etc.) to a surface to cleaned, to a cleaning material of acleaning device (e.g., to moisten the cleaning material prior to orduring use of the cleaning device, etc.), and/or the like. To illustrateone exemplary embodiment, cleaning device 4100 includes a fluid handlingmechanism that comprises a fluid source (container 4154) and fluidoutlets (nozzles 4152) (shown disposed proximal to a surface of headcomponent 4102). The fluid handling mechanism is configured to conveyfluid from container 4154 to nozzles 4152, which communicate via fluidconduit 4156. The fluid handling mechanism of cleaning device 4100 alsoincludes pumping mechanism 4158 (e.g., a rotary lobe pump, a rotary gearpump, a screw pump, a gear pump, a peristaltic pump, or the like) thatis configured to pump the fluid from container 4154 to nozzles 4152. Asalso shown, the fluid handling mechanism also includes vaporizationcomponent 4160 (e.g., a steam vaporizer or the like) that is configuredto vaporize the fluid at least proximal to nozzles 4152. In theembodiment shown, container 4154 is removable from cleaning device 4100such that container 4154 can be, e.g., refilled with a cleaning fluid,replaced with a new container when container 4154 is fabricated as aconsumable component of cleaning device 4100, etc. In some embodiments,containers are fabricated integral or otherwise fixedly attached tocleaning devices. Switch 4150 is also configured to effect operation ofpumping mechanism 4158 and vaporization component 4160. As shown in FIG.41Q, for example, head component 4102 of cleaning device 4100 includeselevational element 4162 from a side view. Elevational elements are alsodescribed in, e.g., U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/317,746,entitled “CLEANING IMPLEMENTS, CLEANING MATERIAL COMPONENTS, AND RELATEDMETHODS”, filed on Mar. 26, 2010, which is incorporated by reference inits entirety.

In some embodiments, the cleaning devices or components thereof of theinvention are optionally adapted for use as part of various types ofrobotic cleaning implements. Exemplary robotic cleaners or aspect thereof that are optionally adapted for use with these cleaning implements orcomponents are described in, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,571,511, entitled“Autonomous floor cleaning robot” to Jones et al, which issued Aug. 11,2009; U.S. Pat. No. 7,620,476, entitled “Autonomous surface cleaningrobot for dry cleaning” to Morse et al., which issued Nov. 17, 2009;U.S. Pat. No. 7,636,982, entitled “Autonomous floor cleaning robot” toJones et al, which issued Dec. 29, 2009; and U.S. Pat. No. 7,761,954,entitled “Autonomous surface cleaning robot for wet and dry cleaning” toZiegler et al., which issued Jul. 27, 2010; and U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication Nos. US 2009/0281661, entitled “Application of localization,positioning & navigation systems for robotic enabled mobile products” byDooley et al., which published Nov. 12, 2009 and US 2009/0306822,entitled “Multi-function robotic device” by Augenbraun et al., whichpublished Dec. 10, 2009, which are each incorporated by reference hereinin their entirety.

Device components (e.g., rotary units, rotary mechanisms, drivemechanism components, gear components, shafts, rotational components,device housings, doors, support structures, etc.) are optionally formedby various fabrication techniques or combinations of such techniquesincluding, e.g., cast molding, stamping, machining, embossing,extrusion, engraving, injection molding, etching (e.g., electrochemicaletching, etc.), or other techniques. These and other suitablefabrication techniques are generally known in the art and described in,e.g., Molinari et al. (Eds.), Metal Cutting and High Speed Machining,Kluwer Academic Publishers (2002), Altintas, Manufacturing Automation:Metal Cutting Mechanics, Machine Tool Vibrations, and CNC Design,Cambridge University Press (2000), Stephenson et al., Metal CuttingTheory and Practice, Marcel Dekker (1997), Fundamentals of InjectionMolding, W. J. T. Associates (2000), Whelan, Injection Molding ofThermoplastics Materials, Vol. 2, Chapman & Hall (1991), Rosato,Injection Molding Handbook, 3.sup.rd Ed., Kluwer Academic Publishers(2000), Fisher, Extrusion of Plastics, Halsted Press (1976), and Chung,Extrusion of Polymers: Theory and Practice, Hanser-Gardner Publications(2000), which are each incorporated by reference. Exemplary materialsoptionally used to fabricate device components include, e.g., metal,glass, wood, polymethylmethacrylate, polyethylene, polydimethylsiloxane,polyetheretherketone, polytetrafluoroethylene, polystyrene,polyvinylchloride, polypropylene, polysulfone, polymethylpentene, andpolycarbonate, among many others. In certain embodiments, followingfabrication, device components are optionally further processed, e.g.,by painting, coating surfaces with a hydrophilic coating, a hydrophobiccoating, or the like.

Exemplary rotary units, rotational mechanisms, related applications, andother aspects, which are optionally adapted, e.g., for use with therotary units and rotational mechanisms described herein are alsodescribed in, e.g., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/577,326,entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Oct.12, 2009, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/104,748, entitled“ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Oct. 12, 2008,International Application No. PCT/US2009/060386, entitled “ROTARY UNITS,MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Oct. 12, 2009, U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/365,290, entitled “ROTARY UNITS,MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Jul. 16, 2010, and U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/317,746, entitled “CLEANINGIMPLEMENTS, CLEANING MATERIAL COMPONENTS, AND RELATED METHODS”, filed onMar. 26, 2010, which arc each incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety for all purposes.

While the foregoing invention has been described in some detail forpurposes of clarity and understanding, it will be clear to one skilledin the art from a reading of this disclosure that various changes inform and detail can be made without departing from the true scope of theinvention. For example, all the techniques and apparatus described abovecan be used in various combinations. All publications, patents, patentapplications, and/or other documents cited in this application areincorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes to the sameextent as if each individual publication, patent, patent application,and/or other document were individually indicated to be incorporated byreference for all purposes,

1. A rotary unit, comprising at least a first rotational component thatcomprises at least first and second surfaces, wherein the first surfacecomprises at least a first gear component and the second surfacecomprises at least a second gear component, which first and second gearcomponents are substantially fixed relative to one another, wherein thefirst gear component is configured to operably engage one or more thirdgear components that are configured to operably engage one or moresecond gear components of at least a second rotational component whenthe first rotational component is disposed proximal to the secondrotational component such that when the first rotational componentrotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates ina second direction, wherein the second gear component is configured tooperably engage one or more third gear components that are configured tooperably engage one or more first gear components of at least a thirdrotational component when the first rotational component is disposedproximal to the third rotational component such that when the firstrotational component rotates in the first direction, the thirdrotational component rotates in the second direction, and wherein thethird gear components are configured to rotate in substantially fixedpositions relative to one another.
 2. The rotary unit of claim, whereinthe first gear component comprises at east one sun gear component. 3.The rotary unit of claim 1, wherein the second gear component comprisesat least one ring gear component.
 4. The rotary unit of claim 1, whereinthe third gear components comprise at least one planetary gearcomponent.
 5. The rotary unit of claim 1, wherein one or more gearstructures comprise the third gear components.
 6. A rotational mechanismcomprising the rotary unit of claim
 1. 7. The rotary unit of claim 1,wherein at least one surface of the first rotational component comprisesat least one implement.
 8. The rotary unit of claim 7, wherein thesurface of the first rotational component that comprises the implementis configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to a rotationalaxis of the rotary unit.
 9. The rotary unit of claim 7, wherein thesurface of the first rotational component that comprises the implementis configured to rotate substantially parallel to a rotational axis ofthe rotary unit.
 10. A rotary mechanism, comprising: at least first,second, and third rotational components, wherein at least one of therotational components comprises at least one implement; at least firstand second counter-rotational mechanisms, wherein the firstcounter-rotational mechanism operably engages at least the first andsecond rotational components, wherein the second counter-rotationalmechanism operably engages at least the second and third rotationalcomponents, and wherein at least portions of the first and secondcounter-rotational mechanisms are substantially fixedly positionedrelative to one another; and, at least one drive mechanism component ora portion thereof operably engaged with one or more of the rotationalcomponents and/or with one or more of the counter-rotational mechanisms,which drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured atleast to effect rotation of the rotational components and thecounter-rotational mechanisms such that the first and third rotationalcomponents rotate in a first direction and the second rotationalcomponent rotates in a second direction.
 11. A rotary unit, comprising:at least a first rotational component that comprises at least one sungear component and at least one ring gear component, wherein the sungear component is configured to operably engage one or more gearcomponents of at least a second rotational component such that when thefirst rotational component rotates in a first direction the secondrotational component rotates in a second direction, and wherein the ringgear component at least partially defines at least one gear structurereceiving area; and, at least one gear structure at least partiallydisposed in the gear structure receiving area, which gear structurecomprises at least one support component and at least one planetary gearcomponent rotatably coupled to the support component, wherein thesupport component is substantially fixedly positioned when the planetarygear component rotates relative to the support component, wherein theplanetary gear component is configured to operably engage the ring gearcomponent and one or more gear components of at least a third rotationalcomponent such that when the first rotational component rotates in thefirst direction the third rotational component rotates in the seconddirection.
 12. The rotary unit of claim 11, wherein the supportcomponent is configured to operably engage one or more other supportcomponents of one or more other rotational components such that thesupport components are substantially fixedly positioned relative to oneanother when the rotational components rotate.
 13. The rotary unit ofclaim 11, wherein the first rotational component comprises at least oneimplement.
 14. A rotary mechanism comprising the rotary unit of claim11.
 15. A rotary mechanism, comprising: at least one drive mechanismcomponent or a portion thereof comprising at least one ring gearcomponent and at least one gear structure that comprises at least onesupport component and at least one planetary gear component rotatablycoupled to the support component, which planetary gear component isconfigured to operably engage the ring gear component; and, at least onerotary unit that comprises: at least one rotational component comprisingat least one ring gear component and at least one sun gear component,and at least one gear structure that comprises at least one supportcomponent and at least one planetary gear component rotatably coupled tothe support component, which planetary gear component is configured tooperably engage the ring gear component, wherein the planetary gearcomponent of the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof isconfigured to operably engage the sun gear component of the rotary unitsuch that when the drive mechanism component or a portion thereofeffects rotation of the ring gear component of the drive mechanismcomponent or a portion thereof in a first direction, the rotationalcomponent of the rotary unit rotates in a second direction.
 16. Therotary mechanism of claim 15, wherein at least one of the rotationalcomponents and/or the ring gear component of the drive mechanismcomponent or the portion thereof comprises at least one implement. 17.The rotary mechanism of claim 15, wherein the gear structure of thedrive mechanism component or the portion thereof is operably connectedto the gear structure of the rotary unit such that the supportcomponents are substantially fixedly positioned relative to one anotherat least when the ring gear component of the drive mechanism componentor the portion thereof rotates in the first direction, the rotationalcomponent of the rotary unit rotates in the second direction.
 18. Therotary mechanism of claim 15, comprising at least three, at least four,at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, at leastnine, at least ten, or more rotary units,
 19. A method of rotating animplement, the method comprising: providing a rotary mechanismcomprising: at least first, second, and third rotational components,wherein at least one of the rotational components comprises at least oneimplement; at least first and second counter-rotational mechanisms,wherein the first counter-rotational mechanism operably engages at leastthe first and second rotational components, wherein the secondcounter-rotational mechanism operably engages at least the second andthird rotational components, and wherein at least portions of the firstand second counter-rotational mechanisms are substantially fixedlypositioned relative to one another; and at least one drive mechanismcomponent or a portion thereof operably engaged with one or more of therotational components and/or with one or more of the counter-rotationalmechanisms; and, moving the drive mechanism component and/or the portionthereof such that the first and third rotational components rotate in afirst direction and the second rotational component rotates in a seconddirection, thereby rotating the implement.